At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a creative kitchen team to deliver exceptional, sustainable food experiences.
- Company: Join the Heritage Portfolio at Edinburgh Zoo, a unique culinary destination.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a chance to work in a vibrant environment.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values creativity and excellence.
- Why this job: Make an impact on food innovation while working in a conservation-focused venue.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef with strong culinary and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 35000 £ per year.
Play a leading role in delivering exceptional, sustainable, story driven food at one of Scotland's most iconic attractions.
Location: Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Rd, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 6TS
Contract: Full time - 5 out of 7 days per week, evenings and weekends required
Salary: Up to 35,000 per annum
Reporting to: Senior Sous Chef
About the Role
We're looking for an experienced, ambitious and creative Sous Chef to join the Heritage Portfolio culinary team at Edinburgh Zoo - a venue unlike any other, where innovation, quality and storytelling come together to enhance every visitor and event experience. This is a hands on leadership role, supporting the day-to-day operation of cafés, restaurants, kiosks, mobile units and event catering across the Zoo. You'll help shape menus, refine standards, develop the team and bring fresh ideas that celebrate seasonality, sustainability and the unique setting of this remarkable venue. As Sous Chef, you will deputise for the Head Chef whenever needed, supporting food quality, compliance, team performance and financial targets - including maintaining COS at 23% or below and managing labour costs effectively.
What you'll do:
- Exceptional Food & Menu Development: Support the creation of innovative, seasonal dishes for cafés, restaurants and events. Work closely with the Head Chef and Innovation & Development Chef on themed menus aligned with exhibitions and seasonal activity. Ensure consistency, quality and creativity across all outlets.
- Operational Leadership: Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring smooth service and high standards. Maintain and update all HACCP plans, SOPs and compliance documentation. Actively lead the team during busy periods and deputise for the Head Chef. Deliver all services in line with SLAs and Heritage Portfolio standards.
- Financial & Commercial Performance: Support kitchen financial targets including menu costing, labour control and stock management. Identify organic growth opportunities in both retail and event catering. Manage suppliers and purchasing, ensuring cost effective and sustainable procurement.
- Team Development & Culture: Recruit, train, coach and inspire chefs at all levels. Lead team briefings and support succession planning. Promote a culture of excellence, creativity and professionalism. Champion sustainability initiatives in line with RZSS and Heritage Portfolio ambitions.
What you'll bring:
- Proven experience at Sous Chef level within a similar high volume, multi outlet or visitor attraction environment.
- Strong experience across both retail café-style cooking and plated service.
- Excellent culinary skills with a passion for innovation and seasonal menu development.
- Strong kitchen leadership and communication skills.
- Experience with accurate menu costing and rotation planning.
- Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate.
- Confident with IT systems and strong organisational ability.
- Exceptional personal presentation and attention to detail.
Desirable:
- Advanced food hygiene qualification.
- Experience with budgeting and menu planning tools.
Why Join Us?
Work at an inspiring venue visited by millions and rooted in conservation, education and community. Be part of an established, respected culinary brand with an outstanding reputation. Help shape creative, sustainable food concepts across diverse outlets and events. Grow within a supportive team that values innovation, training and excellence.
Ready to Lead with Purpose? If you're a driven and talented Sous Chef with a passion for exceptional food, team development and delivering unforgettable experiences, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help shape the next chapter of food at Edinburgh Zoo.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Edinburgh
✨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 Sodexo. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sodexo
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sodexo 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 - Edinburgh
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 Sodexo 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 Sodexo
✨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!
