Lead Sous Chef — Italian-American Kitchen Leadership

Maggiano's Little Italy; Vernon Hills (IL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Health benefits

401(k) plan

Life Insurance

Tuition assistance

Dining discounts

Wellbeing resources

Job summary

Maggiano's Little Italy in Vernon Hills, IL is seeking a Sous Chef to lead the kitchen and mentor cooks, upholding our scratch-made Italian‑American standards and hospitality. You will partner with the Executive Chef to sustain quality and consistency while developing the next generation of kitchen leaders, ensuring a memorable Guest experience every day.

This role requires culinary leadership, a passion for Italian cuisine, and flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays in a

Qualifications

• 2+ years of culinary leadership in a full-service restaurant.
• Strong command of Italian-American cuisine and classic techniques.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and motivate a kitchen team.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation and health code compliance.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations to ensure seamless service.
• Coach and develop line and prep cooks.
• Maintain quality, consistency, and presentation across menu items.
• Perform line checks to meet Maggiano's specifications.
• Manage production, prep lists, and inventory to reduce waste.
• Uphold sanitation and health-code compliance.
• Step into any station to support the team during peak hours.
• Collaborate with leadership to control costs and drive excellence.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Italian-American cuisine

Team coaching

Food safety

Kitchen operations

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

Maggiano's Little Italy in Vernon Hills, IL is seeking a Sous Chef to lead the kitchen and mentor cooks, upholding our scratch-made Italian‑American standards and hospitality. You will partner with the Executive Chef to sustain quality and consistency while developing the next generation of kitchen leaders, ensuring a memorable Guest experience every day.

This role requires culinary leadership, a passion for Italian cuisine, and flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays in a