Sous Chef - La Jolla (Full-time + Tips Sharing)

Valid8 Financial, Inc.; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Valid8 Financial, Inc. is seeking a hands-on, service-driven Sous Chef based in San Diego, California, to lead daily kitchen operations. You will support the Chef de Cuisine while ensuring high standards of culinary execution and team accountability.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years of experience in a Sous Chef role and a strong background in high-volume kitchens. This role requires excellent leadership and communication skills to maintain a positive kitchen culture.

Qualifications

• 2+ years in a Sous Chef or senior line role.
• Experience in high-volume, upscale, or event-driven kitchens.
• Solid understanding of food cost and kitchen operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee service and ensure smooth execution across all stations.
• Train, mentor, and hold staff accountable.
• Enforce sanitation, safety, and health standards.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Communication Skills

Ability to work under pressure

Job description

Work Schedule: Average of 50 hours per week

About Us

BTS Hospitality + Destiny Coast bring over 35 years of experience delivering elevated culinary experiences across corporate events, luxury catering, and high-profile productions.

At Destiny Coast, you’ll work under Chef De Cuisine Bradley in a concept that blends Mediterranean flavors with Southern California coastal cuisine—focused on fresh ingredients, refined execution, and dynamic service.

The Role

We’re seeking a hands‑on, service-driven Sous Chef to help lead daily kitchen operations. This is a key leadership position responsible for executing at a high level, supporting the Chef de Cuisine, and developing a strong, accountable team.

What You’ll Do

Lead the Line

• Oversee service and ensure smooth execution across all stations
• Act as kitchen lead in the absence of the Chef de Cuisine
• Maintain urgency, organization, and clear communication

Drive Culinary Standards

• Ensure consistency in flavor, presentation, and portioning
• Support menu execution and seasonal updates
• Uphold high standards in prep and plating

Build the Team

• Train, mentor, and hold staff accountable
• Foster a positive, efficient, and professional kitchen culture
• Delegate and manage daily workflow

Manage Operations

• Oversee inventory, ordering, and product rotation
• Support food cost control and waste reduction
• Maintain organization and kitchen systems

Ensure Compliance

• Enforce sanitation, safety, and health standards
• Oversee opening/closing procedures

What we are looking for

• 2+ years in a Sous Chef or senior line role
• Experience in high-volume, upscale, or event-driven kitchens
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Solid understanding of food cost and kitchen operations
• Ability to stay composed and adaptable in a fast-paced environment