Italian Cuisine Sous Chef

DO & CO AG; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Daily meals

401K and medical benefits

Career development opportunities

Job summary

DO & CO is seeking a dynamic Italian Cuisine Sous Chef in Des Plaines, IL to lead pasta-focused menus and culinary innovations. The role requires managing high-volume pasta production, ensuring quality, and coordinating at events both in the US and internationally.

The candidate should have strong pasta expertise, be able to work under pressure, and travel as needed to support multiple events globally.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of professional cooking experience in high-volume kitchens.
• Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts is highly desired or required training.
• Strong knowledge of pasta preparation techniques, including dough and sauces.
• Ability to travel for events domestically and internationally.
• Experience operating pasta machines and mixers.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation protocols.

Responsibilities

• Contribute ideas for new pasta dishes and cooking techniques to support menu development.
• Prepare and cook high-quality pasta dishes according to recipes and portion standards.
• Ensure pasta components meet quality and presentation standards.
• Travel to event locations and oversee dedicated stations.
• Monitor production to maintain efficiency and meet meal timelines.
• Maintain proper handling and storage to minimize waste.
• Operate pasta-making equipment safely.

Skills

4+ years cooking experience

Pasta preparation techniques

Teamwork and communication

High-volume kitchen experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts

Tools

Pasta machines

Mixers

Kitchen equipment

Job description

Join our team and bring authentic Italian craftsmanship to life! We’re searching for a dynamic Italian Cuisine Sous Chef ready to infuse passion, tradition, and creativity into our growing culinary program Des Plaines, IL location!

About DO & CO

We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every elevated floor and in the sky. With the three business segments of Airline Catering, International Event Catering, and Restaurants, Lounges & Hotels, we offer gourmet entertainment all over the world. We operate in 33 locations, 12 countries and 3 Continents, maintaining the highest standard of quality in both our products and services. We refine the classics, develop the unknown and grow constantly – sometimes beyond our own expectations.

Responsibilities

• Contribute creative ideas for new pasta dishes, flavor profiles, and cooking techniques to support ongoing menu development and culinary innovation.
• Prepare and cook high-quality pasta dishes in accordance with established recipes and portion standards.
• Ensure all pasta components—including sauces, fillings, and garnishes—meet quality, taste, and presentation standards.
• Travel to various event locations (both in the US and internationally) and oversee dedicated station.
• Contribute creative ideas for new pasta dishes, flavor profiles, and cooking techniques to support ongoing menu development and culinary innovation.
• Assist in monitoring the production process to maintain efficiency and support meal timelines.
• Maintain proper handling and storage of ingredients to ensure freshness and minimize waste.
• Operate and maintain pasta-making equipment, including mixers, rollers, and cookers, in a safe and sanitary manner.
• Support the kitchen team by coordinating cooking activities and communicating effectively during meal preparation.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations as outlined in the company’s food safety management system.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation at all times, ensuring compliance with hygiene standards.
• Report any issues related to food safety, quality, or equipment promptly to the supervisor or hygiene team.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of professional cooking experience, preferably in a high-volume kitchen environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts highly desired; relevant training is required.
• Strong knowledge of pasta preparation techniques, including dough-making, cooking methods, and sauce pairing.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining attention to detail and consistency in food quality.
• Familiarity with kitchen safety and sanitation protocols.
• Experience operating pasta machines, mixers, and other related kitchen equipment.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to work long hours on foot and in environments with varying temperatures.
• Ability (and desire) to travel/work multiple events both domestically and internationally.
• Flexibility to work different shifts (including nights, weekends, and holidays) based on business needs.

What We Offer

• Salary range: $70,000 - $80,000 annually.
• Daily Complimentary Meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner).
• FT employees are eligible for 401K and Medical benefits: medical, dental, and vision.
• An organization dedicated to fostering innovation; in pursuit of cultivating creativity, embracing new ideas and leveraging our impeccable standard for hospitality.
• Genuine career development opportunities, both nationally and internationally.
• The chance to collaborate and represent a leading force in the luxury global gourmet entertainment industry by attending worldclass events.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement

DO & CO provides equal employment opportunities. Applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, disability status or any other protected characteristic.

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