Lead Sous Chef | Growth Path, Bonus & Overtime

Loungers; Reading; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus scheme

Overtime pay

40-hour option

Free meal on shift

Food & drinks discount from day one

Loungefest staff party

Career development

Job summary

Loungers is hiring a full-time Sous Chef for Alto Lounge, part of our Casual Dining Group of the Year 2026. You will support the Head Chef, lead kitchen shifts, and ensure every dish leaving the pass meets our high standards.

The role offers a competitive base salary with bonus and overtime, a 48-hour contract (40-hour option), paid overtime, and clear progression through in-house training and Step-Up programmes.

Qualifications

• A passionate cook who takes real pride in fresh ingredients, clean specs, and food that goes out right every single time.
• Reliable: shows up on time and commits fully.
• Leads by example, setting high standards on the pass and supporting the team.
• Owns shifts in Head Chef's absence, from prep to stock management and handovers.
• Mentors and develops chefs to improve.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen shifts with confidence, keeping service smooth, organised and on spec from prep through to the final plate.
• Be the Head Chef’s right hand, supporting day-to-day operations and stepping up in their absence to deliver strong results.
• Set the tone for high standards on the pass, ensuring food quality, pace, cleanliness, hygiene and safety.
• Take ownership of key kitchen routines including prep, stock control, waste, orders and handovers.
• Coach and support the team to build confidence and deliver great food every shift.

Job description

Loungers is hiring a full-time Sous Chef for Alto Lounge, part of our Casual Dining Group of the Year 2026. You will support the Head Chef, lead kitchen shifts, and ensure every dish leaving the pass meets our high standards.

The role offers a competitive base salary with bonus and overtime, a 48-hour contract (40-hour option), paid overtime, and clear progression through in-house training and Step-Up programmes.