Senior Sous Chef: Leadership & Kitchen Operations

Prairie Meadows; Altoona (IA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Prairie Meadows is seeking a Sous Chef to lead the main kitchen, ensuring daily operations run smoothly and high-quality food is consistently prepared and presented. You will set up the kitchen and supervise staff in a fast-paced environment.

The role emphasizes scheduling, training, menu development, inventory control, and cost management, with a strong focus on safety regulations and teamwork.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with five or more years’ experience in food service.
• Three years or more supervisory experience required.
• Degree in Culinary Arts preferred.
• Must have previous experience with banquets, kitchen equipment, and supplies inventory.
• Knowledge of Iowa Department of Health regulations is required.
• Serv Safe certification preferred.
• Knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office software required.
• Experience with collective bargaining environment preferred.
• Excellent dietary, cooking, supervisory, and customer service skills preferred.
• Must be able to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Ability to stand and walk for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee the activities and functions of the main kitchen, ensuring kitchen work areas are cleaned and prepared.
• Assist with scheduling kitchen staff, ensuring all positions are staffed, business needs are fulfilled, and labor cost objectives are met; this includes determining staff duties, break schedules, and reviewing payroll records for accuracy.
• Implement and coordinate training programs for all kitchen employees.
• Assists management team in preparing menus.
• Oversee distribution of supplies and supply ordering, completing inventories, and controlling food costs.

Skills

Food service management

Supervisory experience

Cost control

Menu planning

Banquets experience

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Culinary Arts degree preferred

Tools

Windows

Microsoft Office

Job description

Prairie Meadows is seeking a Sous Chef to lead the main kitchen, ensuring daily operations run smoothly and high-quality food is consistently prepared and presented. You will set up the kitchen and supervise staff in a fast-paced environment.

The role emphasizes scheduling, training, menu development, inventory control, and cost management, with a strong focus on safety regulations and teamwork.