Sous Chef — Growth Path, Benefits, Italian Kitchen

Maggiano's, Inc.; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus opportunities

Health benefits

401(k) with company match

Life Insurance & Disability coverage

Career growth across Brinker brands

Tuition assistance

Dining discounts

EAP & wellbeing

Job summary

Maggiano's Little Italy is seeking a Sous Chef in Costa Mesa to lead our kitchen team, mentor cooks, and ensure every dish reflects our commitment to quality. This role partners with the Executive Chef to uphold standards and develop future kitchen leaders in a high-volume, guest-focused environment.

Ideal candidates bring 2+ years of leadership in a full-service restaurant, deep knowledge of Italian-American cuisine, and a passion for hospitality.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of culinary leadership experience in a full-service restaurant.
• Strong command of Italian-American cuisine and classic cooking techniques.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and motivate a kitchen team.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health code compliance.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Able to perform essential job functions in a dynamic restaurant environment, including exposure to varying temperatures, noise, and peak-hour demands.
• Able to move throughout the restaurant, retrieve items from shelves and storage areas, and transport supplies weighing up to 30 lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations, ensuring seamless execution during service.
• Coach and develop line cooks, prep cooks, and kitchen teammates.
• Maintain food quality, consistency, and presentation standards across all menu items.
• Perform line checks to guarantee every dish meets Maggiano's specifications.
• Manage food production, prep lists, and inventory to minimize waste.
• Uphold sanitation and food safety standards in compliance with health regulations.
• Step into any kitchen station as needed to support the team during high-volume periods.
• Collaborate with leadership to control food costs and drive operational excellence.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Italian-American cuisine

Team leadership

Food safety

Job description

Maggiano's Little Italy is seeking a Sous Chef in Costa Mesa to lead our kitchen team, mentor cooks, and ensure every dish reflects our commitment to quality. This role partners with the Executive Chef to uphold standards and develop future kitchen leaders in a high-volume, guest-focused environment.

Ideal candidates bring 2+ years of leadership in a full-service restaurant, deep knowledge of Italian-American cuisine, and a passion for hospitality.