Sous Chef Location: Knowle Country House, School Lane, Higham, Rochester, Kent, ME3 7HP Department: Catering Reports to: Head Chef Contract: 35 hour week, No fixed hours, 5/7 contract, unsociable hours so need to be available daytimes, evenings and weekends About the role Are you a passionate and motivated chef who takes pride in producing high-quality food and leading by example? Knowle Country House is looking for a talented and enthusiastic Sous Chef to support our Head Chef in the day-to-day running of the kitchen.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced chef who enjoys working as part of a team, maintaining high culinary standards and helping to create an outstanding dining experience for our guests. As Sous Chef, you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the kitchen, delivering consistently excellent food, maintaining the highest standards of food safety and hygiene, and supporting the development of the kitchen team.
You will also take responsibility for leading the kitchen in the absence of the Head Chef, ensuring that service runs smoothly and standards remain consistently high.
Key responsibilities:
Kitchen Operations Support the Head Chef with the daily management and smooth running of the kitchen. Prepare, cook and present dishes to a consistently high standard, following agreed menus, recipes and portion sizes. Ensure the kitchen is organised, well-prepared and ready for service. Monitor food quality, presentation and consistency throughout service. Contribute ideas for new dishes, seasonal menus and menu improvements.
Maintain a clean, organised and professional working environment. Team Leadership and Development Supervise, support and motivate the kitchen team during service. Allocate duties and help organise daily workloads to ensure an efficient service. Lead by example, promoting teamwork, professionalism and high standards. Support the training and development of junior chefs, kitchen assistants and new team members. Assist the Head Chef with maintaining performance standards and developing the team.
Take charge of the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence, ensuring continuity of service and quality. Stock Control and Cost Management Assist with ordering, receiving and storing food supplies. Monitor stock levels, report shortages and check deliveries for quality and accuracy. Ensure effective stock rotation and safe food storage. Maintain portion control and support food cost management. Minimise food waste and make efficient use of ingredients.
Guest Experience Help deliver an excellent dining experience through outstanding food quality and presentation. Respond professionally to guest feedback and dietary requirements. Work closely with front-of-house colleagues to ensure smooth, well-coordinated service. Food Safety and Health & Safety Maintain excellent standards of food hygiene, safety and cleanliness. Ensure food is prepared, stored and handled in line with food safety legislation and company procedures.
Monitor food temperatures, storage conditions and safe working practices. Follow company health and safety procedures and report any hazards or unsafe conditions.
What we're looking for
We're looking for a reliable, organised and enthusiastic chef who can combine strong cooking skills with effective team leadership. Essential skills and experience: Previous experience as a Chef de Partie, Sous Chef or in a similar professional kitchen role. Strong knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques and kitchen operations. A good understanding of food safety, hygiene and allergen management. The ability to lead, motivate and support a kitchen team. Excellent organisational and time-management skills. A keen eye for detail and a genuine passion for producing quality food. The ability to remain calm and work effectively under pressure. Experience in a supervisory or team leadership role. A good standard of education. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays where required.
Desirable:
Experience in a hospitality or catering environment similar to Knowle Country House. Experience contributing to menu development and controlling food costs. A Level 3 Food Safety qualification.
Why join us?
This is an opportunity to play an important role in the kitchen at Knowle Country House, working alongside the Head Chef to maintain high standards, develop your skills and help deliver an excellent experience for our guests. If you're a committed chef who enjoys taking responsibility, supporting a team and delivering great food, we'd love to hear from you.
How to apply
If you're ready to take the next step in your culinary career, apply today through Totaljobs. We look forward to hearing from you.
Sous Chef employer: The Knowle Country House Limited
At Knowle Country House, we pride ourselves on creating a vibrant and supportive work environment where our team members can thrive. As a Floor Supervisor, you'll not only lead a dedicated front-of-house team in a stunning country house setting but also benefit from flexible working hours and opportunities for professional growth within the hospitality industry. Join us to be part of a dynamic team that values exceptional service and memorable guest experiences.
Contact Details:
The Knowle Country House Limited Recruitment Team
