Sous Chef - Upscale Casual Dining | Equestrian Manor

the World Equestrian Center; Ocala (FL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The World Equestrian Center is seeking an experienced Sous Chef for their upscale restaurant. The role involves leading culinary operations, developing seasonal menus, and ensuring high standards of food quality. Candidates must have strong leadership, culinary expertise, and a passion for exceptional dining experiences.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in a culinary leadership role with expertise in Asian cuisine.
• Extensive knowledge of kitchen operations.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks.

Responsibilities

• Manage kitchen operations, ensuring high food quality and guest satisfaction.
• Lead and mentor culinary team, upholding operational standards.
• Develop and execute seasonal menus while managing food costs.

Skills

Communication Skills

Attention to Detail

Leadership Skills

Education

ServSafe Certification

Alcohol Compliance Certification

Job description

The World Equestrian Center is seeking a talented Sous Chef to join our team for an upscale casual concept restaurant. This is a department head position within the Food & Beverage Division, responsible for making key operational decisions and supporting the restaurant’s culinary operations.

We are looking for an experienced and skilled Sous Chef to help lead our culinary team. In this role, you will report to and support the Chef de Cuisine in all aspects of kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation. You will assist in developing and executing seasonal menus, managing food costs, and maintaining strict hygiene and safety standards in the kitchen. The ideal candidate will have a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences, strong culinary expertise, and the leadership ability to inspire and guide a team of culinary professionals.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Performance: Ensure attention to detail, speed, and accuracy while managing kitchen operations. Resolve issues efficiently and ensure guest service needs are met, especially under pressure.
• Leadership: Hire, train, evaluate, and motivate the culinary team. Uphold cultural and core standards and oversee daily operations to maintain team morale and productivity.
• Menu Development: Work with the Chef de Cuisine to plan and execute seasonal menus, ensuring food quality, preparation, and presentation meet the highest standards.
• Financial Oversight: Manage labor costs, control operating expenses, and optimize inventory through effective scheduling, budgeting, and purchasing.
• Sanitation & Safety: Ensure compliance with sanitation and safety standards set by the World Equestrian Center, local, state, and federal regulations, and maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment.
• Quality Control: Monitor food shipments, ensure proper compliance with specifications, and focus on maintaining consistent food quality throughout all stages of preparation.
• Communication: Facilitate smooth communication within the kitchen team and with management to ensure seamless operations.
• Guest Feedback: Address guest concerns regarding food quality and service, implementing corrective actions as necessary.
• Event Planning: Coordinate and execute special events and private dining experiences that enhance guest experiences and generate additional revenue.
• Inventory Management: Oversee inventory management and ordering to maintain stock levels, reduce waste, and control costs.
• VIP Service: Ensure exceptional dining experiences for high-profile guests, surpassing their expectations.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a culinary leadership role with expertise in Asian cuisine.
• Culinary Expertise: Extensive knowledge of kitchen operations, equipment, and food preparation techniques.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional organizational and time-management skills.
• Research & Development: Passion for innovation and enhancing culinary experiences.
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop culinary teams.
• Labor Relations: Knowledge of labor laws regarding employment, safety, wages, and labor relations.
• Certifications: Must have ServSafe and Alcohol Compliance Certifications.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing/Walking: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and perform physical tasks such as kneeling, crouching, and climbing.
• Lifting: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Vision & Hearing: Good vision for close-up work and strong hearing ability for communication.
• Endurance: Ability to work standing for extended periods (8+ hours).

The World Equestrian Center is managed by Columbus Hospitality Management, a company committed to providing quality service and memorable guest experiences in a positive and welcoming work environment. We are focused on supporting the needs of our team through our commitment to the family/work-life balance and by providing development opportunities.

We are proud to be a Drug-Free Workplace/EOE. All applicants will be required to submit a background check prior to employment.