Sous Chef

Careers; Dunedin; On-site; NZD 41,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Emerson’s in Dunedin is seeking a Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in a fast-paced, produce-driven kitchen. You’ll mentor a talented team, help craft seasonal menus, and ensure every dish leaving the kitchen is top‑notch.

This full‑time role offers minimum hours of 35 per week and pays between $30.00 and $32.00 per hour, depending on experience and skills.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years’ experience in a fast-paced, produce-driven, professional kitchen environment.
• Proven leadership skills and a collaborative approach.
• Real passion for flavour and high standards in cooking.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen with pride and precision.
• Support the Head Chef in daily operations, training, and team growth.
• Create menus that celebrate seasonal, local ingredients and techniques.
• Keep food quality, safety, and consistency to the highest standard.

Skills

Leadership

Fast-paced environment

Team collaboration

Flavor sensitivity

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Step into the kitchen at one of NZ’s most iconic breweries – Emerson’s – and bring your passion for food to life!

About Emerson’s:

Since 1992, Emerson’s has been crafting world-class beverages like 1812 and Pilsner, building a reputation for excellence, creativity, and quality. We’re a small-but-mighty team where everyone supports each other, and being part of LION means you get the security and growth opportunities of a big company with the warmth and heart of a family-owned business.

About the Role:

As our Sous Chef, you’ll be the right-hand of our Head Chef, helping run the kitchen with pride and precision. You’ll mentor our talented team, get creative with seasonal, local ingredients, and make sure every dish leaving the kitchen is top-notch. Fast-paced, high-volume, produce-driven – this is a place for someone who loves a challenge and thrives under pressure. This is a full-time role with minimum guaranteed hours of 35 per week, paying $30.00 – $32.00 per hour depending on experience and skills.

What We’re Looking For:

• At least 3 years’ experience in a fast-paced, produce-driven, professional kitchen environment
• Proven leadership skills and a collaborative approach
• Expertise across all areas of the kitchen
• A sharp palate, a cool head under pressure, and a real passion for flavour

What You’ll Do:

• Lead the kitchen with pride and precision
• Support the Head Chef in daily operations, training, and team growth
• Create menus that celebrate seasonal, local ingredients – think house-cured meats, hand-stretched dough, and more
• Keep food quality, safety, and consistency at the highest standard

Why You’ll Love It Here:

You’ll be part of a motivated, fun, and passionate team. Your work will be seen and celebrated, and you’ll get to deliver unforgettable experiences – for both our customers and yourself!