Executive Sous Chef | Lead & Elevate Fine-Dining Kitchen

Goodwin Recruiting; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) participation

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Paid time off

Five-day workweek

Dining perks

Bonuses

Job summary

Goodwin Recruiting is seeking an accomplished Executive Sous Chef to lead a hands-on, high-volume kitchen in Washington, DC. You will drive food quality, consistency, and team development while upholding safety and operational standards.

This role focuses on cost control, menu collaboration, and staff mentorship in a fast-paced, hospitality-driven environment. A five-day workweek with comprehensive benefits is offered.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience as a Sous Chef in upscale or fine-dining environments.
• Strong culinary skills with American cuisine expertise.
• Proven ability to lead, train, motivate, and develop kitchen teams.
• Experience with inventory management, portion control, and managing food costs.
• Hands-on leadership style focused on accountability, quality, and guest experience.

Responsibilities

• Direct, supervise, and develop kitchen personnel including Sous Chefs, Line Cooks, Prep Cooks, and Dishwashers.
• Oversee daily food preparation, production, and execution to ensure quality and presentation.
• Delegate assignments and set clear expectations for kitchen staff.
• Monitor food quality through taste, temperature, portioning, and plating.
• Maintain standardized recipes, procedures, and cooking standards.
• Coordinate food preparation and expedite orders for timely service.
• Manage inventories and support cost-control initiatives.
• Develop work schedules for preparation and stewarding teams.
• Train staff on kitchen procedures, safety, and equipment operation.
• Inspect facilities and equipment for health, safety, and sanitation compliance.
• Assist with menu development and collaborate on new dishes and production planning.
• Foster a professional, accountable kitchen culture focused on excellence.

Skills

Sous Chef experience

Leadership & development

Food quality & presentation

Inventory & cost control

Food safety & sanitation

Job description

Goodwin Recruiting is seeking an accomplished Executive Sous Chef to lead a hands-on, high-volume kitchen in Washington, DC. You will drive food quality, consistency, and team development while upholding safety and operational standards.

This role focuses on cost control, menu collaboration, and staff mentorship in a fast-paced, hospitality-driven environment. A five-day workweek with comprehensive benefits is offered.