Please Note: We encourage you to apply for this position even if you don't meet all of the listed qualifications. Studies have shown that many qualified candidates, particularly women and people from underrepresented groups, often hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. If you're excited about this role and believe you can contribute to our team, we want to hear from you.

Position Title: Sous Chef

Location: Ostras | Latin-Asian Oyster Bar, Rosemont, IL

Employment Type: Full-Time, Salaried

Reports To: Executive Chef

About Ostras: Ostras is a Latin-Asian Oyster Bar and fine dining restaurant that seeks to showcase the beauty of the 19th parallel north, connecting Mexico with many Southeast Asian countries. We combine the flavors of Mexico, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and China to create a unique culinary experience. Inspired by renowned establishments like Mare in Chiang Mai, La Dosena in Mexico City, and Porto in Chicago, our mission is to tell the story behind our ingredients and the techniques from the lands they originate.

Job Summary: The Sous Chef is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the kitchen operations, ensuring the highest culinary standards, and supporting the Executive Chef in menu development, staff training, and kitchen management. This position plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality and consistency of the dishes served at Ostras.

Key Responsibilities:

• Kitchen Management:
• Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations and ensure smooth workflow.
• Supervise kitchen staff, including line cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashers.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment.
• Menu Development:
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on menu planning and recipe development.
• Ensure that all dishes are prepared to the restaurant’s standards of quality and presentation.
• Innovate and introduce new dishes that align with the Latin-Asian fusion concept.
• Food Preparation:
• Prepare and cook dishes according to the restaurant’s recipes and standards.
• Ensure all food is cooked to the correct temperature and consistency.
• Plate and garnish dishes in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
• Quality Control:
• Inspect ingredients for freshness and quality.
• Monitor food portions and waste to maintain cost control.
• Ensure that all dishes leaving the kitchen meet the restaurant’s high standards.
• Staff Training and Development:
• Train and mentor kitchen staff to ensure high performance and adherence to standards.
• Conduct regular staff meetings and performance reviews.
• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment.
• Cultivate a positive environment for the BOH team to work and learn in.
• Lead initiatives to grow and develop the BOH team, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and learning.
• Inventory and Ordering:
• Manage inventory levels and ensure proper stock rotation.
• Order kitchen supplies and ingredients as needed.
• Track and control food costs to meet budgetary goals.
• Safety and Sanitation:
• Adhere to all safety and sanitation regulations.
• Regularly clean and sanitize kitchen equipment and tools.
• Report any maintenance or safety issues to the Executive Chef.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• Culinary degree or equivalent experience required.
• Experience:
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a fine dining establishment, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of Latin and Asian culinary techniques and ingredients.
• Skills:
• Strong leadership and management skills.
• Excellent culinary skills with a strong sense of creativity and innovation.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently under pressure.
• Strong attention to detail and presentation skills.
• Proficient in food safety and sanitation practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Personal Attributes:
• Passion for culinary arts and a commitment to excellence.
• Positive attitude and a team player.
• Strong work ethic and reliability.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Capability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to withstand high temperatures and work in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Health and dental insurance (subject to eligibility and company policy; not guaranteed for all positions)
• Paid time off (subject to eligibility and company policy; not guaranteed for all positions)
• Opportunities for professional development and growth