Sous Chef

Elio's Place; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Monthly tips

Work-life balance

Benefits across venues

Job summary

Elio’s Place in Melbourne seeks a dynamic Sous Chef to energise the kitchen and guide the culinary team through night and weekend services. You will lead daily kitchen operations, ensure quality, and mentor a medium-sized team within a vibrant European-Australian menu environment.

The role requires strong leadership, creativity, and a passion for exceptional food, with a focus on reducing waste, managing costs, and delivering memorable dining experiences.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years proven experience as a sous chef in a restaurant/bistro setting.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Knowledge of modern Australian and classic European cuisines and techniques.
• Excellent culinary skills with an eye for detail and creativity.
• Ability to adapt, multitask, and prioritise while executing smooth service.
• Sound knowledge of food safety and OH&S standards.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist the head chef and lead the culinary team to achieve quality and consistency in food preparation and presentation.
• Assist with development and creation of menus showcasing seasonal, local produce and contemporary culinary trends.
• Supervise kitchen staff, including training and development, and performance management; manage food prep and service to ensure quality.
• Maintain inventory levels and carry out ordering to minimise waste and control costs; work towards meeting food and labour budgets while driving sales.
• Cultivate a sense of community at Elio’s Place and collaborate with all departments to deliver memorable dining experiences.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Culinary expertise

Cuisine knowledge

Multitasking

Time management

Education

Food Safety Supervisor certification

Job description

For the Love Hospitality is a growing, professional and passionate group, run by sibling duo, Adam and Elisa. We’ve been creating since 2012, with venues Elio' Place, Greta and Maverick, all located in the Melbourne CBD.

Elio’s Place is Melbourne’s all-day bistro in the heart of Flinders Lane, Melbourne’s culinary district. Open early, up late, we offer breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week. Our menu showcases European bistro classics combined with modern Australian flair. It’s where old world European charm meets warm and welcoming hospitality.

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and motivated Sous Chef to work with us to inspire the culinary team and assist in overseeing daily kitchen activities. This is a full time role and includes nights and weekends.

Key responsibilities

Leadership:Assist the head chef/executive chefin leading and developing the culinary team. Manage and train the team to achieve quality and consistency in all aspects of food preparation and presentation.

Menu design:Assist with development and creation of menus showcasing seasonal, local produce and contemporary culinary trends.

Operations: Supervise kitchen staff, including training and development, and performance management. Oversee food preparation and service to ensure quality in every dish. Maintain inventory levels and carry out ordering so as to minimise waste and control costs. Work towards meeting food and labour budgets whilst driving sales. Address any challenges that may arise in the kitchen.

Community:Cultivate a sense of community at Elio’s Place; work closely with all departments to deliver memorable dining experiences and a cohesive team environment.

Compliance:Ensure compliance with food safety standards, and occupational health and safety guidelines.

Availability to work nights and weekends is essential.

Skills & Experience

Minimum 2 years proven experience as a sous chef in a restaurant/bistro setting.

Excellent communication and leadership skills, with demonstrated ability to manage and inspire a high performing kitchen team of a medium size.

Knowledge of modern Australian and classic European cuisines and techniques.

Excellent culinary skills and an eye for detail, a creative mindset and passion for offering exceptional food.

Ability to adapt, multitask, and prioritise while executing smooth service.

Sound knowledge of food safety and occupational health and safety standards.

Strong organisational and time management skills.

Qualifications:

Previous experience as a sous chef in a similar setting.

Food Safety Supervisor certification is advantageous.

We're a growing, passionate team, committed to delivering memorable dining experiences.

Opportunity to showcase your creativity.

We are an owner operator venue with a structured support system.

Benefits across all venues.

We value work-life balance.

Competitive remuneration based on skills and experience, monthly tips.

We are looking to recruit the newest addition to the kitchen team promptly, therefore only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.