Sous Chef – Vela Bar y Cocina

Location: River North 

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Executive Chef

About Vela Bar y Cocina

Vela is a modern, upscale dining experience that celebrates bold flavors, refined techniques, and warm hospitality. As part of the Celeste Group, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality cuisine rooted in tradition while embracing innovation.

Position Summary

We are seeking a passionate and driven Sous Chef to join our culinary team. The Sous Chef will work closely with the Executive Chef & Chef de Cuisine to oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and excellence in food quality. This role requires strong leadership, a deep understanding of Mexican cuisine, and the ability to execute high-level culinary techniques while maintaining a positive and collaborative kitchen culture.

Key Responsibilities

•   Assist the Executive Chef & Chef de Cuisine in all aspects of kitchen management, including food production, menu development, and staff supervision.
•   Lead and mentor the kitchen team, ensuring proper training, discipline, and professional growth.
•   Maintain high culinary standards, ensuring consistency in execution and presentation.
•   Oversee kitchen operations during service, expediting when necessary and ensuring smooth execution.
•   Monitor food and labor costs, assisting with ordering, inventory control, and waste reduction.
•   Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen.
•   Support the execution of special events, menu tastings, and off-site functions as needed.
•   Uphold Vela’s standards of hospitality, teamwork, and excellence.

Qualifications & Requirements

•   Minimum 3+ years of experience in a leadership role within a professional kitchen.
•   Strong knowledge of Mexican cuisine and a passion for culinary innovation.
•   Proven ability to lead, train, and inspire a team.
•   Experience with food cost control, inventory management, and kitchen operations.
•   Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
•   Strong communication and organizational skills.
•   ServSafe Certification or equivalent food safety training required.
•   Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Why Join Vela?

•   Opportunity to be part of a growing restaurant group with a commitment to culinary excellence.
•   Work in a supportive and dynamic environment that values creativity and professional development.
•   Competitive salary and benefits package.
•   A chance to collaborate with passionate hospitality professionals.