Lead Sous Chef — Kitchen Leader & Mentor

Thompson-Hospitality; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health/Dental/Vision

Paid Time Off

401(k), matched up to 4%

Short and Long Term Disability

Tuition Reimbursement

Employee Referral Program

Pet Insurance

Discounts: Hotels, Travel, Tickets, …

Job summary

Milk & Honey by Thompson Restaurants is seeking a passionate Sous Chef to lead our kitchen and drive culinary excellence. You will partner with the General Manager and culinary team to plan, prep, and execute service with precision and creativity.

As kitchen leader, you will manage daily operations, mentor staff, maintain food safety, quality, and cost controls, and foster a positive, accountable kitchen culture. This role requires a strong leadership presence and hands-on mentorship.

Qualifications

• Experience in a high class dining experience.
• Experience as a sous chef.
• A great attitude and work ethic.
• Ability to move freely in large kitchen spaces, storage areas, and multiple dining facilities across campus.
• Ability to communicate clearly in a noisy kitchen environment.
• May require climbing ladders or using step stools to access upper storage or equipment.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Executive Chef in planning and executing the culinary vision for Milk & Honey.
• Oversee food preparation and ensure dishes are executed with precision and creativity.
• Collaborate with the kitchen team to maintain a smooth workflow during service hours.
• Uphold the highest standards of food safety, cleanliness, and sanitation.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff to maintain excellence in culinary techniques and presentation.
• Requires 50–55 hours per week, including evenings and weekends as business needs dictate.

Skills

High-end dining experience

Sous Chef experience

Attitude & work ethic

Mobility in large kitchen

Clear communication in noisy kitchen

Climbing ladders / stairs

Job description

Milk & Honey by Thompson Restaurants is seeking a passionate Sous Chef to lead our kitchen and drive culinary excellence. You will partner with the General Manager and culinary team to plan, prep, and execute service with precision and creativity.

As kitchen leader, you will manage daily operations, mentor staff, maintain food safety, quality, and cost controls, and foster a positive, accountable kitchen culture. This role requires a strong leadership presence and hands-on mentorship.