Sous Chef: Menu Creator & Kitchen Leader

Upper Crust Food Service; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Upper Crust Food Service is seeking a Sous Chef to support the Head Chef with food preparation, menu development, and kitchen operations. You will help ensure meals are prepared safely and to specification while maintaining a clean, organized kitchen and dining area.

The role requires teamwork, strong communication, and the ability to manage high-pressure situations. You will collaborate on evolving menu concepts, assist with events, and uphold strict sanitation standards.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of food service experience, ideally with bulk prep and production in a commercial kitchen.
• Food safety handler and sanitation certification, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Comfort working with a variety of personalities under pressure.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Comfort standing for 8+ hour shifts and lifting up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Work alongside the Head Chef to make sure food is prepared safely, efficiently, and to spec
• Collaborate on seasonal, evolving menu concepts
• Keep the kitchen and dining room clean and sanitary
• Wash utensils, equipment, and dishes as needed
• Help unload, inspect, and store raw ingredients and supplies
• Enforce food safety and sanitation standards per state and local regulations
• Plan and execute special events as directed by management
• Communicate regularly with management by phone, email, and text

Skills

Food service experience

Verbal communication

Written communication

Background check

Physical stamina

Education

Food safety handler certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days)

Job description

Upper Crust Food Service is seeking a Sous Chef to support the Head Chef with food preparation, menu development, and kitchen operations. You will help ensure meals are prepared safely and to specification while maintaining a clean, organized kitchen and dining area.

The role requires teamwork, strong communication, and the ability to manage high-pressure situations. You will collaborate on evolving menu concepts, assist with events, and uphold strict sanitation standards.