J O B T I T L E
SOUS CHEF
D E P A R T M E N T
BACK OF THE HOUSE
R E P O R T S T O
HEAD CHEF
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Sous Chef plays a vital leadership role by supporting the Head Chef in managing all back-of-house operationsThis includes supervising kitchen staff, ensuring culinary excellence, maintaining food safety and cost standards, and fostering a positive and professional work environment. The Sous Chef contributes to menu development, training, and daily kitchen oversight while ensuring consistency, quality, and efficiency across all aspects of production and service.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Essential Functions
- Supervise and coordinate daily kitchen operations under the direction of the Head Chef.
- Lead assigned stations and participate actively in food preparation and plating during service.
- Ensure the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and portion control are consistently met.
- Monitor kitchen workflow and delegate responsibilities to maintain smooth, efficient service.
- Assist with ordering, scheduling, inventory, and recipe cost control to meet financial and operational goals.
- Maintain strict adherence to GAIA’s food safety, sanitation, and hygiene protocols in compliance with HACCP standards.
- Train, coach, and mentor kitchen staff to ensure performance and adherence to company standards.
- Coordinate effectively with front-of-house teams to ensure seamless communication and guest satisfaction.
- Act as the Head Chef’s representative in their absence, ensuring consistent leadership and direction.
Additional Responsibilities
- Participate in recruitment, onboarding, and performance evaluations for culinary team members.
- Support the planning, testing, and implementation of seasonal menu updates and special events.
- Oversee kitchen maintenance and ensure all equipment is in proper working condition.
- Assist in monitoring labor, food, and waste costs while maintaining quality and efficiency.
- Promote teamwork and collaboration across all departments.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Head Chef or management to support GAIA’s operational success.
PERSONAL COMPETENCIES
- Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and inspire.
- Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.
- High attention to detail and commitment to maintaining culinary excellence.
- Ability to remain calm, composed, and professional in a high-pressure environment.
- Effective communicator and collaborative team player.
- Positive attitude, adaptability, and commitment to GAIA’s service philosophy.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIREMENTS
- Culinary diploma or equivalent education preferred.
- Minimum of five (5) years of progressive kitchen experience, including supervisory responsibilities.
- Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety practices.
- Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8–10 hours per shift).
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs on a regular basis.
- Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, pushing, pulling, crouching, and stretching.
- Manual dexterity required to handle knives, slicers, mixers, and other kitchen equipment.
- Ability to taste and smell to evaluate food quality and freshness.
- Clear vision, hearing, and communication required for coordination with staff and management.
Work Environment
- Primarily indoors in a professional kitchen setting with exposure to hot stoves, ovens, dish machines, and freezers.
- Noise levels range from moderate to high during service periods.
- Fast-paced environment requiring focus, composure, and attention to detail.
- Schedule includes evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.
INTENT AND FUNCTION OF THE JOB DESCRIPTION
The Company reserves the right, at any time with or without notice, to alter or change job duties, reassign or transfer responsibilities, or assign additional responsibilities as needed. From time to time, you may be directed to work on special projects or perform other duties as assigned that are necessary or important to the operation of the Company.
GAIA USA, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with applicable law, we prohibit discrimination against any applicant or employee based on any legally-Protected Characteristics, including, but not limited to: race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, citizenship and immigration status, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), veteran status, military status, uniformed servicemember status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law (collectively “Protected Characteristics”). Our commitment to equal opportunity employment applies to all persons involved in our operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any employee, including supervisors and co-workers.