At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious dishes and lead a passionate kitchen team.
- Company: Las Iguanas, a vibrant South American restaurant chain.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, and 50% employee discount.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Join a fun, energetic kitchen and grow your culinary career.
- Qualifications: Passion for food and teamwork; experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Join Our South American Adventure as a Sous Chef at Las Iguanas, where our kitchens are driven by energy, passion and bold Latin flavour. Inspired by the vibrant food and culture of South America, we create fresh, flavour-packed dishes in fast-paced, high-volume kitchens. As a Sous Chef, you’ll be a key leader in the kitchen, working closely with the Head Chef to deliver consistently great food, motivate and develop the team, and keep standards high every service.
You’ll lead from the front, jump on the line when it’s busy, and help create a positive, high-energy environment where people love to work. We’re looking for a confident, organised and passionate Sous Chef who thrives in a buzzing kitchen, takes pride in developing others, and knows how to balance pace with quality. You’ll have strong kitchen experience, a great team mindset, and the drive to keep learning and progressing.
If you’re ready to step into a leadership role where flavour, fun and teamwork come as standard — and where your career can really grow — Las Iguanas is the place to turn up the heat.
Why Las Iguanas? We know that happy teams create great guest experiences, so we offer:
- Competitive pay, 45-hour contract, quarterly bonus and opportunity to earn Tronc adding a substantial extra to your yearly base salary.
- A Place for Everyone – We celebrate individuality and believe our differences make us stronger. Whoever you are, if you bring passion and leadership, there’s a place for you in our kitchen!
- 50% Employee Discount – Enjoy discounts across Big Table Group brands, plus 25% off for friends & family.
- Flexible Working – Negotiable contracts to suit your lifestyle.
- Career Growth – Fully funded Production Chef Level 3 apprenticeships and development programs.
- Wellbeing & Support – Our Employee Assistance Program includes a 24/7 virtual GP, mental health support, counselling, fitness & diet plans.
- Perks & Rewards – Access to wages before payday, salary finance support, healthcare cash plan, dental plan, discounted gym memberships, and savings on theme parks, shopping, and entertainment!
- Team Celebrations – Competitions, team parties, and even a chance to win e-points to spend on your favourite retailers.
As a Sous Chef, you will:
- Create a wide range of dishes – From starters to desserts, delivering quality every time.
- Work as a team – Keep up the pace and energy in the kitchen.
- Ensure safety & hygiene – Always maintaining the highest food safety standards.
- Communicate & stay organised – Keep the kitchen running smoothly under pressure.
- Guide & mentor junior chefs – Share your skills and help the team develop & grow.
Who We’re Looking For: If you love food, enjoy working as part of a close-knit team, and thrive in a fast-paced kitchen environment, you could be exactly who we’re looking for. At Las Iguanas, our kitchens are the heartbeat of the restaurant. From prepping fresh ingredients to cooking dishes our guests love, you’ll play a key role in delivering great food every time. You’ll be part of a supportive, friendly team where you can learn new skills, build confidence, and take pride in what you do.
We’re proud to be an inclusive workplace where everyone belongs. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process, just let us know – we’re always happy to help.
Thinking about using AI tools for your application? They can help you get started, but what really stands out to us is you – your enthusiasm, teamwork, and willingness to get stuck in.
What’s the process? Application → CV review → interview → offer and onboarding. You don’t need loads of experience – just a genuine love for food, a positive attitude, and a great team mindset. If you enjoy working behind the scenes to create something special on the plate, we’d love to welcome you into the kitchen. Apply now and take the next step in your hospitality career!
Sous Chef - Las Iguanas Newcastle employer: Big Table Group
Las Iguanas is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, where passion for food and teamwork are at the forefront. With competitive pay, flexible working options, and extensive career growth opportunities, including fully funded apprenticeships, we ensure our Sous Chefs thrive in a supportive environment. Join us in Newcastle to be part of a dynamic team that celebrates individuality and offers fantastic perks, making every day in our kitchen a rewarding adventure.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Las Iguanas Newcastle
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Big Table Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Big Table Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Big Table Group directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Sous Chef - Las Iguanas Newcastle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Big Table Group and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Big Table Group
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
