Lead Sous Chef - Senior Living Kitchen & Dining

The Variel Assisted Living; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The Variel Assisted Living in Woodland Hills, CA, seeks a hands‑on Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef with daily kitchen operations, menu planning, and food production. You will provide leadership to the kitchen team, ensure quality and safety, and coordinate service with dining to create a positive resident dining experience.

Ideal candidates bring calm under pressure, strong teamwork, and a passion for hospitality.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Culinary degree or formal culinary training preferred.
• Minimum three years of restaurant, senior living, or related cooking experience preferred.
• Knowledge of food preparation, menu presentation, production, and kitchen operations.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to lead and support a kitchen team.
• Ability to remain organized and calm under pressure.
• Current food safety/sanitation certification required as applicable by state or local requirements.

Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Chef with daily kitchen and dining operations.
• Assist with menu planning, food preparation, and coordination of daily service.
• Assign duties and provide direction and support to kitchen team members.
• Prepare, portion, and present food according to established recipes and quality standards.
• Ensure food is fresh, properly stored, labeled, rotated, and handled safely.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, sanitation, and food safety.
• Assist with kitchen setup, meal service, cleanup, and proper use and care of equipment.
• Work closely with dining and other departments to support a smooth and positive dining experience.
• Connect with residents and respond to feedback regarding food quality, presentation, temperature, and preferences.
• Identify opportunities to improve food quality, service, and the overall dining experience.
• Promote a positive kitchen culture built on teamwork, respect, accountability, and pride in serving others.
• Remain calm, flexible, and solution‑focused in a fast‑paced environment.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Food safety

Teamwork

Communication

Calm under pressure

Education

High school diploma or GED

Culinary degree or training

Tools

Minimum equipment knowledge

Job description

The Variel Assisted Living in Woodland Hills, CA, seeks a hands‑on Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef with daily kitchen operations, menu planning, and food production. You will provide leadership to the kitchen team, ensure quality and safety, and coordinate service with dining to create a positive resident dining experience.

Ideal candidates bring calm under pressure, strong teamwork, and a passion for hospitality.