Senior Sous Chef — Lead Kitchens & Menu Innovation

SmartRecruiters, Inc.; Pirbright; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Aramark in Pirbright, United Kingdom is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to lead kitchen operations, uphold culinary excellence, and mentor a brigade under the Head Chef. You will drive standards, manage costs, and maintain rigorous food safety practices to deliver outstanding cuisine.

The role requires 4+ years in kitchen roles with at least 2 in senior positions, plus a Food Safety cert. UK hospitality background and strong leadership are essential.

Qualifications

• Culinary training qualification or equivalent practical kitchen experience (minimum 4 years, with at least 2 years in a senior kitchen role)
• Current Food Safety and Hygiene certification
• Leadership and staff supervision experience in a professional kitchen
• Strong organisation and time management skills
• Ability to work calmly under pressure in high‑volume or fine dining environments

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise kitchen staff during service with clear direction and mentoring
• Prepare and cook dishes to high standards following recipes and plating specifications
• Manage multiple stations and oversee service, ensuring efficiency and timing
• Conduct mise en place to keep ingredients, equipment and workstations prepared
• Deputise for Head Chef and take responsibility for operations and staff
• Ensure strict food safety, hygiene and health and safety compliance
• Analyse food costs, portion control and inventory to optimise profitability
• Contribute to menu development and culinary innovation
• Manage inventory and liaise with suppliers
• Maintain detailed records of operations, costs and staff performance

Skills

Culinary leadership

Food safety

Menu development

Cost control

Staff training

Kitchen operations

Time management

Communication

Education

Culinary training or equivalent

Tools

Kitchen systems

Job description

Aramark in Pirbright, United Kingdom is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to lead kitchen operations, uphold culinary excellence, and mentor a brigade under the Head Chef. You will drive standards, manage costs, and maintain rigorous food safety practices to deliver outstanding cuisine.

The role requires 4+ years in kitchen roles with at least 2 in senior positions, plus a Food Safety cert. UK hospitality background and strong leadership are essential.