Sous Chef

Hakalodge; Kitchen (WV); On-site; USD 31,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff perks

Job summary

25 Degrees in Lake Tekapo is hiring a talented Sous Chef to help lead our fast-paced, creative kitchen. You’ll be second-in-command, working closely with the Head Chef to keep service smooth and standards high.

If you thrive under pressure, enjoy mentoring others, and have a passion for fresh, flavourful food and creative presentation, this is your moment. Join a fun, energetic team and help us deliver unforgettable experiences.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a busy kitchen, ideally in a senior or sous role.
• Ability to lead during service and collaborate with Head Chef.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Commitment to high standards of hygiene and safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen during service and support the Head Chef.
• Assist with menu planning, prep, and plating.
• Train and mentor junior staff.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety.
• Manage stock, ordering, and kitchen organisation.

Skills

Sous chef experience

Leadership

Mentoring staff

Fast-paced service

Food quality

Job description

Step up, lead the line, and bring the flavour – all with a view that never gets old.

About Us

At 25 Degrees, we’re all about bold food, laid-back vibes, and unforgettable experiences. Located in the heart of Lake Tekapo, our kitchen is fast-paced, creative, and full of energy – just like our team. We serve up fresh, flavour-packed dishes to locals and travellers from all over the world, and we do it with heart.

About the Role

We’re on the hunt for a talented and motivated Sous Chef to help lead our kitchen crew. You’ll be second-in-command, working closely with the Head Chef to keep service smooth, standards high, and creativity flowing. If you thrive under pressure, love mentoring others, and have a passion for great food – this is your moment.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading the kitchen during service and supporting the Head Chef
• Helping with menu planning, prep, and plating
• Training and mentoring junior staff
• Maintaining high standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety
• Managing stock, ordering, and kitchen organisation
• Bringing energy, ideas, and leadership to every shift

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience in a busy kitchen, ideally in a senior or sous role
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• A cool head under pressure and a love for fast-paced service
• A passion for fresh, flavourful food and creative presentation
• A team-first attitude and a drive to grow

Why Work With Us?

• Work in one of NZ’s most iconic locations with a view that’s hard to beat
• Be part of a passionate, supportive, and fun kitchen team
• Get creative with food and grow your leadership skills
• Enjoy staff perks and meet awesome people from around the world

If you’re ready to be part of something special and help us deliver the best experience in New Zealand, we’d love to hear from you!