Task Force Sous Chef, Chaminade Resort

BENCHMARK; Live Oak (CA); On-site; USD 66,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k with company match

Recognition programs

Job summary

Pyramid Global Hospitality is seeking a Full-Time Restaurant Sous Chef at Chaminade Resort & Spa in Santa Cruz, CA. You will lead daily kitchen operations, supervise culinary teammates, ensure recipes are followed, and maintain the highest standards of food safety and presentation.

The role requires 2–4 years in a hotel/resort kitchen, strong leadership and communication skills, and the ability to work evenings, weekends and holidays.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–4 years of professional culinary experience in hotel/resort/high-volume operation.
• Previous Sous Chef or leadership experience preferred.
• Culinary degree or formal training preferred but not required.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques and food safety practices.
• Ability to read and execute recipes; strong organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations during assigned shifts.
• Work hands-on on the line and contribute to food preparation and service.
• Ensure all dishes meet established recipes, standards and presentation.
• Maintain consistent food quality, portion control, temperature, and presentation.
• Assist with menu execution, daily specials, and seasonal offerings.
• Monitor kitchen pace and ticket times to ensure efficient service.
• Supervise and coach culinary team members and onboard new staff.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Food safety

Team supervision

Communication

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Pyramid Global Hospitality is a leading hospitality management company with a portfolio of more than 200 hotels and resorts and over 18,000 associates across the United States, Caribbean, and Europe. Our platform includes Benchmark Resorts & Hotels, a collection of distinctive independent properties; Axiom Hospitality, our European hotel management company; and PYRAMIDWORKS, which provides integrated workplace and facilities services. With corporate offices in Boston, The Woodlands, Texas, and London, Pyramid combines global scale with a hands-on approach focused on exceptional service, operational excellence, and long-term partnerships. At Pyramid, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to creating an environment where associates are respected, supported, and empowered to grow their careers. Team members have the opportunity to collaborate directly with experienced leaders, take on meaningful stretch assignments, and gain exposure to a diverse portfolio of properties, brands, and markets. Whether you are beginning your hospitality career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to learn, develop, and make an impact. Our commitment to associates, guests, owners, and the communities we serve has helped make Pyramid and our properties among the most recognized in hospitality. From being named among the best places to work by respected publications such as USA Today, The Boston Globe, and The Houston Chronicle to earning top travel accolades from Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, and U.S. News & World Report, these recognitions reflect the culture, service excellence, and commitment to people that define the Pyramid experience.

About our property:

Discover the charm of Chaminade Resort & Spa in Santa Cruz, CA, where our team, managed by Pyramid Global, blends seamlessly into the scenic landscape. With 156 cozy guest rooms and 12,000 sq ft of meeting space spread across 12 unique venues, our resort is not just a workplace—it's a haven where nature meets hospitality. Beyond the stunning views, Chaminade Resort & Spa is where our culture fosters growth and opportunities. As part of the Pyramid Global family, you'll enjoy perks like a 401k with a company match and recognition programs tailored to celebrate your dedication.

What you will have an opportunity to do:

Restaurant Sous Chef Department: Food & Beverage / Culinary Reports To: Executive Chef Location: Chaminade Resort & Spa Employment Type: Full-Time.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Kitchen Operations - Lead daily kitchen operations during assigned shifts.
• Work hands-on on the line and actively participate in food preparation and service.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared according to established recipes, standards, and presentation specifications.
• Maintain consistent food quality, portion control, temperature, and presentation.
• Assist with menu execution, daily specials, and seasonal offerings.
• Monitor kitchen pace and ticket times to ensure efficient service.
• Conduct line checks and ensure all stations are properly stocked and prepared for service.
• Assist with opening and closing procedures.
• Supervise, coach, and motivate culinary team members.
• Provide clear direction and maintain a positive, professional kitchen culture.
• Assist with training and onboarding of new culinary associates.
• Monitor performance and provide coaching when necessary.
• Lead by example through strong work ethic, professionalism, and attention to detail.
• Assist with scheduling and staffing based on business levels.
• Communicate effectively with the Executive Chef, restaurant leadership, and Food & Beverage management.
• Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, sanitation, and food safety.
• Ensure proper food handling, storage, labeling, dating, and rotation.
• Monitor compliance with health department and company food safety standards.
• Conduct regular temperature checks and maintain required logs.
• Ensure kitchen equipment and work areas are clean, organized, and properly maintained.
• Immediately address any food safety or sanitation concerns.
• Assist with ordering, receiving, and storing food and culinary supplies.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate product needs to the Executive Chef.
• Minimize food waste through proper preparation, storage, and utilization.
• Maintain proper portion control and support food cost objectives.
• Assist with monthly and periodic inventory counts.
• Work closely with Front of House leadership to ensure smooth restaurant service.
• Respond professionally to guest requests, dietary restrictions, and special culinary needs.
• Communicate 86'd items, menu changes, and service issues promptly.
• Assist in resolving food quality or service concerns.
• Maintain a strong focus on delivering an exceptional resort dining experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–4 years of professional culinary experience, preferably in a hotel, resort, restaurant, or high-volume operation.
• Previous Sous Chef, Lead Cook, Chef de Partie, or comparable leadership experience preferred.
• Culinary degree or formal culinary training preferred but not required.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food preparation, and kitchen operations.
• Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Ability to read and execute recipes consistently.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to remain calm and productive in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with both culinary and front-of-house teams.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull food products, equipment, and supplies.
• Ability to work in a hot, humid, and fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and move throughout the kitchen.
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and peak resort periods.

Key Success Factors

• Be a hands-on leader who is actively engaged in daily kitchen operations.
• Consistently deliver high-quality food and presentation.
• Build a strong and accountable culinary team.
• Maintain excellent food safety and sanitation standards.
• Control food costs and minimize waste.
• Communicate effectively with culinary and restaurant leadership.
• Create a positive, professional, and respectful kitchen culture.
• Support an exceptional guest experience through consistent culinary execution.

Pyramid Global Hospitality and Chaminade Resort & Spa are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all associates and applicants. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

What are we looking for?

Compensation: $78000 - $78000

Pyramid Global Hospitality is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years & depth of experience, certifications and specific office location. This may differ in other locations due to cost of labor considerations.

Pyramid Global Hospitality is a leading hospitality management company with a portfolio of more than 200 hotels and resorts and over 18,000 associates across the United States, Caribbean, and Europe. Our platform includes Benchmark Resorts & Hotels, a collection of distinctive independent properties; Axiom Hospitality, our European hotel management company; and PYRAMIDWORKS, which provides integrated workplace and facilities services. With corporate offices in Boston, The Woodlands, Texas, and London, Pyramid combines global scale with a hands-on approach focused on exceptional service, operational excellence, and long-term partnerships. At Pyramid, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to creating an environment where associates are respected, supported, and empowered to grow their careers. Team members have the opportunity to collaborate directly with experienced leaders, take on meaningful stretch assignments, and gain exposure to a diverse portfolio of properties, brands, and markets. Whether you are beginning your hospitality career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to learn, develop, and make an impact. Our commitment to associates, guests, owners, and the communities we serve has helped make Pyramid and our properties among the most recognized in hospitality. From being named among the best places to work by respected publications such as USA Today, The Boston Globe, and The Houston Chronicle to earning top travel accolades from Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, and U.S. News & World Report, these recognitions reflect the culture, service excellence, and commitment to people that define the Pyramid experience.