Sous Chef

Posted 1 day 14 hours ago by Only Chefs Ltd

Permanent
Full Time
Hospitality & Tourism Jobs
Essex, Basildon, United Kingdom, SS131
Job Description

We're looking for an experienced, permanent Sous Chef who's ready for a new challenge and wants to play a key role in shaping the future of a growing brunch café. We are a small team, who are passionate, supportive and genuinely enjoy what we do - and we are looking for someone who wants to grow with us.

Our food is centred around seasonal, hearty dishes made with care - quality brunch plates, fresh ingredients, comforting flavours, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

We are a team where everyone helps each other out, communication matters and hard work is appreciated.

We're currently evolving our menu and concept to attract a new customer base, so this is a great opportunity for someone who wants more responsibility, creative involvement, and the chance to help build something exciting from the ground up.

This role is ideal for someone confident running a kitchen independently alongside a Kitchen Porter, while maintaining high standards across all areas of the kitchen.

The Role

You'll be responsible for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, ensuring consistency, cleanliness, organisation, and smooth service while helping develop the direction of the food offering. A typical working day would begin at 7:30am and end at 4pm, although we are looking for someone who can be flexible. Weekend work is required.

Key Responsibilities
  • Running the kitchen independently during prep and service
  • Preparing fresh seasonal dishes to a high standard
  • Managing stock control, rotation, and kitchen organisation
  • Placing orders and monitoring stock levels efficiently
  • Maintaining a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment
  • Ensuring all food hygiene and health & safety standards are followed
  • Opening and closing the kitchen
  • Training and supporting junior staff and Kitchen Porters
  • Assisting with menu ideas, specials, and kitchen development
  • Managing prep schedules and reducing waste
  • Maintaining consistency and attention to detail in every dish
What We're Looking For
  • Previous experience as a Junior Sous Chef or Sous Chef in a fresh-food kitchen
  • Someone organised, reliable, and able to work independently
  • Passion for cooking and seasonal comfort food
  • Strong understanding of kitchen operations and food safety
  • Confident managing stock and maintaining kitchen standards
  • Positive attitude and willingness to help grow the business
  • Flexible approach and strong work ethic
What We Offer
  • Competitive pay depending on experience
  • Opportunity to have real input into menus and kitchen direction
  • Supportive and relaxed working environment
  • A chance to grow with the business as it develops
  • Staff meals and good coffee included

If you're looking for a role where you can genuinely make an impact and help shape a growing brunch restaurant, we would love to hear from you.