Sous Chef Job Description for Hospitality Employers
Need a strong second-in-command to lead your kitchen team? A clear, compelling sous chef job description can help you attract skilled candidates who thrive under pressure and know how to lead.
This guide is for hospitality employers who want to write job ads that get noticed – and filled – fast.
Why the Sous Chef role matters
Sous chefs are the glue between your head chef and the kitchen team. They often run the pass, oversee service, coach junior chefs and ensure food leaves the kitchen to spec and on time.
Hiring the wrong person here can quickly unravel even the best kitchen – which is why a well-written sous chef job description is critical.
What to include in a Sous Chef job description
Here’s a template you can adapt to suit your kitchen’s needs:
Sous Chef job description template
Job Title: Sous Chef
Reports To: Head Chef / Executive Chef
Location: [Your venue or kitchen name]
Summary:
We’re looking for an experienced sous chef to support our head chef in leading a busy kitchen. The ideal candidate will help manage day-to-day operations, lead a team of chefs and maintain high standards of food quality and kitchen hygiene.
Key Responsibilities:
- Run daily service and manage the pass with consistency and pace.
- Support with menu development, tastings and seasonal updates.
- Train, mentor, and appraise junior kitchen staff.
- Uphold kitchen hygiene and safety standards (HACCP compliance).
- Manage stock rotation, supplier orders and inventory control.
- Step up confidently in the Head Chef’s absence.
- Contribute to financial targets by minimising waste and improving efficiency.
- Foster a positive kitchen culture, ensuring teamwork under pressure.
Requirements:
- Previous experience as sous chef, or a strong CDP ready to step up.
- Formal culinary training or NVQ Level 3 equivalent.
- In-depth knowledge of food safety and allergen regulations.
- Proven leadership and strong communication skills.
- Ability to delegate effectively and resolve conflicts on the spot.
- Flexible, reliable and able to thrive in high-volume or fine-dining settings.
Salary & Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience (£30,000–£40,000 typical in the UK).
- Meals on shift and uniform provided.
- Opportunities for training, development and progression to Head Chef.
- Staff discounts and wellbeing support (if offered by your venue).
- Clear performance review process and potential bonuses.
Sous Chef job description – salary considerations
Sous chef salaries in the UK typically range from £30,000 to £40,000, depending on location, experience and the size of your operation. Offering clear salary bands, realistic performance bonuses and extras like flexible rosters or staff meals can help your role stand out – especially in a tight market.
What makes a Sous Chef candidate stand out?
While experience matters, here’s what really separates a good sous chef from a great one:
- Initiative: Do they step in before being asked?
- Leadership: Can they command respect without barking orders?
- Composure: Do they keep the team steady during service?
- Coachability: Are they able to train and support junior staff?
Check out our post on sous chef interview questions to get the most out of your next hiring process.
Final thoughts
The sous chef role is the backbone of any successful kitchen. They set the pace, balance the pressure and keep the team moving in the right direction.
Get this hire right and you’ll build a team that runs smoother, delivers better food and sticks around longer. Get it wrong, and you’ll feel it in staff turnover, guest feedback and your bottom line.
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FAQs
What’s the difference between a Sous Chef and a Junior Sous Chef?
A sous chef is typically second-in-command tp the head chef. A junior sous chef is a step below, often supporting both the sous and head chef.
Should I include salary on my job ad?
Yes. Even if it’s a range, it builds trust and improves application rates.
How do I attract top sous chef talent?
Focus on culture, growth and clarity. Chefs want kitchens that are fair, professional and open about expectations.
Do I need to include qualifications?
You can – but don’t overdo it. Many great chefs have built their expertise through working in kitchens over many years. Experience and attitude often matter more than certificates.
Where can I find good Sous Chef candidates?
Specialist platforms like Jobboard Kitchen, chef networks and social media are great places to start.
