Sous Chef

The Winton, a well-loved country pub in East Lothian, is looking for a passionate and committed Sous Chef to support the day-to-day running of the kitchen and help shape our evolving food offering. Opening four years ago, The Winton has quickly established itself as a destination eatery within the local community, known for quality, consistency, and a welcoming atmosphere. Working closely with the Head Chef, you'll be the key link between senior leadership and the wider team. This is a hands-on role suited to a focused and reliable chef with a strong grounding in classic British and modern cookery, delivering pub classics done well alongside creative, seasonal gastropub dishes. We are a scratch kitchen focusing on flavour and seasonality. You'll play an important role in maintaining these standards while helping to develop junior chefs and build a positive, supportive kitchen culture.

Key Responsibilities Kitchen Operations

Support the Head Chef in the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen
Lead service in the Head Chef's absence, ensuring calm, consistent delivery during busy periods
Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and cleanliness
Ensure all dishes are prepared and served in line with agreed specifications

Team Leadership & Development

Act as the bridge between the Head Chef and the kitchen team
Train, support, and mentor junior chefs
Promote a positive, hard-working, and respectful kitchen environment

Rotas & Labour Control

Assist with managing rotas and kitchen labour alongside the GM/Duty Manager
Help control wage percentages and maintain efficient staffing levels

Menu Planning & Development

Contribute practical and creative menu ideas, reflecting seasonality and the style of a quality country pub
Use the specials board to trial new dishes and refine them with the Head Chef
Ensure recipes are followed consistently and accurately
Support ongoing menu development

Specifications & Standards

Assist in maintaining the kitchen spec book
Ensure consistency in portioning, plating, and overall dish standards

Procurement & Cost Control

Support ordering in line with suppliers, costings, and menu requirements
Help manage GP and food costs through good prep, portion control, and waste reduction
Assist with sourcing quality local produce

Food Safety & Compliance

Ensure full compliance with food safety and health & safety standards (FSMS, HACCP, COSHH, CookSafe)
Maintain allergen records and ensure team awareness
Uphold best practices in hygiene, temperature control, and stock rotation

Record Keeping & Administration

Complete daily, weekly, and monthly food safety records
Carry out probe checks and ensure equipment is properly maintained
Ensure staff food is recorded correctly when leading shifts

Stock Control

Support stocktaking, including counts, wastage tracking, and reporting
Maintain good stock rotation and minimise waste

What We Offer

Competitive salary plus excellent tips/tronc
A good work-life balance with minimal very early starts or late finishes
A supportive team environment in a busy, community-focused country pub
The opportunity to grow your career within a business that continues to develop year on year

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £30,000.00-£35,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person