Sous Chef

Prentice Organization; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with employer match

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Employee discount

Paid time off

Paid training

Job summary

Twelve, a nationally acclaimed restaurant from the Prentice Hospitality Group in Portland, ME, is seeking a passionate Sous Chef to join our culinary team as second-in-command to the Executive Chef. This hands-on role focuses on leading a high-performing kitchen, ensuring top-quality prep, service, and plating with precision.

As part of a fast-paced environment, you will mentor staff, refine seasonal menus, and uphold the highest standards of guest experience and hospitality.

Qualifications

• Lead Line Cook experience or readiness to step up.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a high-volume kitchen.
• Passion for creativity, seasonal menus, and guest experiences.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.

Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations, including prep, service, and daily execution.
• Lead and inspire the culinary team, setting high standards for quality, consistency, and presentation.
• Develop, test, and refine menu items in collaboration with the Executive Chef.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Manage inventory, ordering, and cost control to maximize efficiency.
• Train, mentor, and schedule kitchen staff to create a strong, cohesive team.
• Step in and run the kitchen in the absence of the Executive Chef.
• Maintain a positive, professional, and collaborative kitchen culture.
• Additional duties as necessary.

Skills

Lead Line Cook

Leadership

Communication

High-volume kitchen

Mentoring

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent training

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: Portland, ME 04101, Position Type: Full Time, Salary Range: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 Salary/year, About Twelve

Located on Portland, Maine's historic waterfront, Twelve is a nationally acclaimed restaurant from the Prentice Hospitality Group. Known for its refined approach to modern American cuisine, Twelve celebrates Maine's exceptional ingredients through seasonal menus that highlight the region's farmers, fishermen, and artisans with precision and creativity.

The restaurant is defined by thoughtful hospitality, meticulous technique, and a commitment to excellence at every level of service.

At Twelve, our team shares a passion for craftsmanship, collaboration, and delivering an elevated dining experience that reflects the best of Maine's culinary landscape.

Position Summary

We're looking for a passionate and driven Sous Chef to join our culinary team. As the second-in-command in the kitchen, you'll work side-by-side with our Executive Chef to bring creative menus to life, lead the team with energy and precision, and ensure every dish that leaves the kitchen meets the highest standards. This is a hands-on role where leadership, creativity, and attention to detail all come together to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love mentoring others, and have a deep respect for fresh, seasonal ingredients, this is your chance to shine.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Executive Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations, including prep, service, and daily execution.
• Lead and inspire the culinary team, setting high standards for quality, consistency, and presentation.
• Develop, test, and refine menu items in collaboration with the Executive Chef.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Manage inventory, ordering, and cost control to maximize efficiency.
• Train, mentor, and schedule kitchen staff to create a strong, cohesive team.
• Step in and run the kitchen in the absence of the Executive Chef.
• Maintain a positive, professional, and collaborative kitchen culture.
• Additional duties as necessary.

Qualifications:

• Experience as a Lead Line Cook ready to step up.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training preferred.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive under pressure in a high-volume kitchen.
• Passion for creativity, seasonal menus, and exceptional guest experiences.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Paid training

We're excited to meet passionate, dedicated individuals who want to grow with us.