Sous Chef - Las Iguanas Southampton

Big Table Group; Southampton; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

45-hour contract

Quarterly bonus

Employee discount

Flexible working

Career growth

Wellbeing & Support

Perks & Rewards

Job summary

Las Iguanas is seeking a confident Sous Chef to join our kitchen leadership. You will work closely with the Head Chef to deliver consistently great food, motivate the team and maintain high standards in a busy, high-volume operation.

You’ll lead from the front, jump on the line when needed, and help create a positive, energetic environment where people love to work. A passion for food and team development is essential.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Strong line-cook and sous-chef experience.
• Able to mentor junior chefs and develop team members.

Responsibilities

• Create a wide range of dishes from starters to desserts.
• Lead and motivate the kitchen team during service.
• Maintain food safety and hygiene to the highest standards.
• Communicate clearly and stay organised under pressure.
• Mentor junior chefs and support ongoing development.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen experience

Team management

Communication

Job description

Join Our South American Adventure as a Sous Chef

At Las Iguanas, our kitchens are driven by energy, passion and bold Latin flavour. Inspired by the vibrant food and culture of South America, we create fresh, flavour‑packed dishes in fast‑paced, high‑volume kitchens and our Sous Chefs help bring that fiesta to life.

As aSous Chef, you’ll be a key leader in the kitchen, working closely with the Head Chef to deliver consistently great food, motivate and develop the team, and keep standards high every service. You’ll lead from the front, jump on the line when it’s busy, and help create a positive, high‑energy environment where people love to work.

We’re looking for a confident, organised and passionate Sous Chef who thrives in a buzzing kitchen, takes pride in developing others, and knows how to balance pace with quality. You’ll have strong kitchen experience, a great team mindset, and the drive to keep learning and progressing.

If you’re ready to step into a leadership role where flavour, fun and teamwork come as standard — and where your career can really grow — Las Iguanas is the place to turn up the heat.

WhyLas Iguanas?

We know that happy teams create great guest experiences, so we offer:Competitive pay, 45-hour contract, quarterly bonus and opportunity to earn TroncA Place for Everyone – We celebrate individuality and believe our differences make us stronger. Whoever you are, if you bring passion and leadership,there’sa place for you in our kitchen!50% Employee Discount – Enjoy discounts across Big Table Group brands, plus 25% off for friends & family.Flexible Working – Negotiable contracts to suit your lifestyle.Career Growth – Fully funded Production Chef Level 3 apprenticeships and development programs.Wellbeing & Support – Our Employee Assistance Program includes a 24/7 virtual GP, mental health support, counselling, fitness & diet plans.Perks & Rewards –Access to wages before payday, salary finance support,healthcare cash plan, dental plan,discounted gym memberships, and savings on theme parks, shopping, and entertainment!Team Celebrations – Competitions, team parties, and even a chance to win e-points to spend on your favourite retailers

As a Sous Chef, you will:

• Create a wide range of dishes – From starters to desserts, delivering quality every time.
• Work as a team – Keep up the pace and energy in the kitchen.
• Ensure safety & hygiene – Alwaysmaintainingthe highest food safety standards.
• Communicate & stay organised – Keep the kitchen running smoothly under pressure.
• Guide & mentor junior chefs – Share your skills and help the team develop & grow.

WhoWe’reLooking For:

If you love food, enjoy working as part of a close‑knit team, and thrive in a fast‑paced kitchen environment, you could be exactly who we’re looking for.

AtLas Iguanas, our kitchens are the heartbeat of the restaurant. From prepping fresh ingredients to cooking dishes our guests love, you’ll play a key role in delivering great food every time. You’ll be part of a supportive, friendly team where you can learn new skills, build confidence, and take pride in what you do.

We’re proud to be an inclusive workplace where everyone belongs. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process, just let us know – we’re always happy to help.

Thinking about using AI tools for your application? They can help you get started, but what really stands out to us is you – your enthusiasm, teamwork, and willingness to get stuck in.

What’s the process?

Application → CV review → interview → offer and onboarding

You don’t need loads of experience – just a genuine love for food, a positive attitude, and a great team mindset. If you enjoy working behind the scenes to create something special on the plate, we’d love to welcome you into the kitchen.