Catering Sous Chef

Workstream; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The herb box in Scottsdale, AZ, seeks a seasoned Sous Chef to lead a fast-paced catering kitchen and ensure impeccable food quality, service, and safety. You will work closely with the Executive Chef to plan menus, oversee prep, and manage events across on-site and off-site venues.

Ideal candidates have 3+ years leading catering kitchens, strong budgeting skills, and deep knowledge of Whole 30, Paleo, vegan/vegetarian cuisine. Expect long hours, travel as needed, and a dynamic team environment.

Qualifications

• Led a full-service catering kitchen with high-volume output.
• Demonstrated budgeting and cost-control in food/labor.
• Knowledge of Whole 30, Paleo, vegan/vegetarian cooking.
• Compliant with food safety regulations and health codes.
• Trained staff and maintained professional kitchen culture.

Responsibilities

• Monitor kitchen production daily to ensure quality and consistency.
• Track food and labor costs in MarginEdge for daily operations.
• Maintain top standards of food presentation, prep, and safe handling.
• Lead and discipline staff when needed while upholding professionalism.
• Manage ordering systems for food, equipment, and supplies.

Skills

Leading catering kitchen

Whole 30

Paleo

Vegan/Vegetarian

Budgeting

Food safety

Staff training

Attention to detail

Flexible hours

Food handlers card

Multitasking

Team leadership

Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW

A Sous Chef in a catering company plays a vital role in delivering high-quality and memorable dining experiences at various locations and events. They work closely with the culinary team to plan, prepare, and execute catering orders efficiently and ensure that all culinary aspects meet or exceed client expectations.

WORK HOURS

This role is required to work a minimum of 40-50 hours per week. They must be able to work flexible scheduled shifts based on business needs. Scheduling can include nights and weekends depending on events and functions. Some travel may be required.

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

• Will help monitor kitchen production on a daily and ongoing basis.
• Will closely monitor and assist in tracking food and labor costs involved with the daily operation of the Catering Company in MarginEdge.
• Will maintain the highest standards of food presentation, preparation, execution, and safe handling.
• Will have a positive attitude at all times in the kitchen ( Your staff will behave as you behave) and maintain the highest standards of service and professionalism towards all staff members including subordinates, supervisors, and all FOH staff.
• Will delegate responsibilities to staff, as required.
• Will address staff with disciplinary actions, as required.
• Will help maintain systems and procedures of ordering for all kitchen needs i.e. Food, equipment, chemicals, maintenance, etc..
• Will help maintain a par system set in place by supervisors and keep thorough lines of communication with those supervisors.
• Will help actively maintain inventory control which includes monthly physical inventory in MarginEdge.
• Will help actively maintain stated budgetary goals for food, labor, maintenance and other expenses in MarginEdge.
• Will maintain consistent uniform quality levels.
• Will be thoroughly familiar with menu items including ingredients, preparation, and condiments required.
• Will assist other staff members with duties as required.
• Will maintain physical workspace to highest standards of cleanliness, including familiarity with all local, state, and federal health codes and laws pertaining to kitchen line, dish, and prep areas.
• Will assist in food buying and sourcing.
• Will represent the company to all customers, purveyors, writers and others in a positive manner.
• Will work staff positions as necessary.
• Will work double shifts if required and as scheduled.
• Will attend all scheduled staff meetings as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous experience of at least 3 years leading a full-service, high-quality, fast pace catering kitchen.
• Solid understanding of Whole 30, Paleo, Vegan and Vegetarian Cooking methodologies.
• Demonstrated high level of proficiency in all aspects of food preparation and menu development.
• Demonstrated high level of proficiency in all aspects of staff relations and training.
• Demonstrated high level of proficiency in all aspects of budget development and ability to meet financial goals.
• Able to be focused and decisive in fast-paced situations.
• Good physical condition in order to lift moderate weights, move quickly and remain on feet for prolonged long periods of time.
• A sincere desire to provide utmost quality service.
• Must be keen with attention to detail.
• Well-groomed appearance.
• Possess a valid Health Department Food Handlers Card and Active Managerial Credentials.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills.
• Team player with good communication skills.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as event schedules required.

Attention

Candidates should be prepared for a stage shift, with the potential for an interview with the Executive Chef immediately following the stage shift if you advance to the next stage of the recruitment process. The stage shift may last up to 4 hours, and it's important to note that not all applicants will be interviewed afterward.

The herb box is your prime destination for locally sourced food with the freshest, seasonally inspired ingredients and traditional recipes. With two locations in Scottsdale, AZ, our eatery is proud to provide quality service, delicious food, and a warm, comfortable atmosphere. Our goal is to ensure you have a memorable dining experience with your family and friends.
There’s no place like home. So, yours or ours? We offer on-site and off-site event services that are personalized to fit any style. Our catering options and private dining spaces allow for you and your guests to experience the perfect event. Whether it be for an intimate gathering or a large party, we have the space, the design, the service and the cuisine to create a memorable affair.
Start planning your event today at one of our three private dining spaces at Shea Blvd & 5th Avenue Old Town Locations. Have a larger event in mind? Ask us about our 5,000 sq ft patio at Shea and our buy-out options! We look forward to throwing an unforgettable party for you & your guests. Extraordinary cuisine, impeccable service, and beautiful spaces.