Junior Sous Chef

MERCURE; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hotel chain in Abu Dhabi is seeking a Junior Sous Chef to support kitchen operations in a high-end dining environment. Your role will involve managing food preparation, ensuring dish consistency, and supervising the kitchen team. Candidates should have a culinary diploma and at least 3 years' experience, including 1 year as Junior Sous Chef. This role demands strong leadership, time management, and the ability to work under pressure. Flexibility in shift timings is essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a professional kitchen environment.
• At least 1 year experience as Junior Sous Chef.
• Experience in luxury hotels or high-end restaurants is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the Sous Chef in managing kitchen operations.
• Ensure consistency of dishes according to brand standards.
• Supervise kitchen team during service.

Skills

Culinary techniques

Team motivation

Time management

Interpersonal skills

Multitasking

Education

Culinary diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Description

• Support the Sous Chef in managing the kitchen operations : food preparation, cooking, plating and service
• Ensure the consistency of all dishes in terms of taste, appearance, portion size and presentation, according to established recipes and brand standards
• Participate in mise en place, line management, assembly stations and service execution during high volume periods.
• Monitor and manage ingredient quality, storage, stock rotation, and minimize waste.
• Maintain highest standards of hygiene, sanitation and kitchen safety, in compliance with HACCP and local regulations.
• Conduct regular checks on storage, equipment, food preparation and service to ensure compliance with standards.
• Ensure proper handling, labeling, and storage of food items, and supervise compliance across shifts.
• Supervise and support the kitchen team (line cooks, prep cooks, commis) during service; ensure smooth operations across shifts.
• Provide training, guidance and mentorship to junior kitchen staff; assist in schedule management and shift coverage.
• Assist with recruiting, evaluating performance, and providing feedback to culinary team members.
• Help manage inventory levels, placing orders as required, monitoring usage and ensuring value for money.
• Assist in controlling food cost, portion control, wastage minimization and aligning kitchen operations with budgetary goals.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices for kitchen efficiency.
• Collaborate with the culinary leadership team to develop and implement special menus, seasonal dishes, promotions, and themed events.
• Interact with guests when needed to gather feedback, resolve concerns and enhance their dining experience.
• Uphold the brand’s standards in luxury service, presentation and hospitality experience.

Qualifications

• Culinary diploma or equivalent qualification in culinary arts, hotel & restaurant management or related field.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a professional all day dining and banquet kitchen environmentincluding at least 1 year experience as Junior Sous Chef.
• Experience in luxury hotels, high‑end restaurants or similar premium hospitality settings preferred.
• Strong culinary foundation : proficiency in a variety of cooking techniques, cuisines, plating / presentation styles and kitchen management.
• Leadership qualities : ability to motivate, train and direct a team; strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational, multitasking and time‑management skills; ability to work under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
• Flexible to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards, health regulations and kitchen operations software / inventory systems is a plus.
• A positive, proactive attitude with a passion for culinary excellence, creativity and guest satisfaction.

Additional Information

Junior Sous Chef for Mercure Abu Dhabi Downtown