Sous Chef - UVA-Brandon Ave

Job Description

The Sous Chef at Gaston Food Hub is a dynamic, hands-on culinary leader responsible for supporting the Executive Chef in all kitchen operations across our four diverse dining concepts: The Den by Denny's, Launch Test Kitchen, Whisk Pastry, and Bodega. This role requires a skilled chef with the ability to manage a team, maintain quality and consistency, and adapt to the unique needs of each venue. The ideal candidate will be a creative problem-solver with a strong passion for culinary excellence and a commitment to food safety.

Job Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Manage and oversee daily kitchen operations for all four concepts, ensuring seamless execution of menus and efficient workflow.

• Team Management & Training:

  • Supervise, coach, and motivate kitchen staff across all concepts.

  • Assist in training new culinary staff on proper techniques, station responsibilities, and food safety standards.

  • Create and manage staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage for all venues.

• Culinary Execution:

  • Oversee food preparation, cooking, and plating to maintain high standards of quality and presentation for each dining concept.

  • Act as a leader on the line, stepping in to support various stations as needed during peak service times.

  • Work closely with the Whisk Pastry team to ensure pastry production and quality meet standards.

• Inventory & Cost Control:

  • Manage and track inventory, place orders with suppliers, and conduct regular checks to minimize waste and ensure product availability.

  • Monitor food and labor costs, working with the management team to meet financial targets.

• Health & Safety:

  • Enforce all food safety and sanitation regulations (HACCP) to ensure a clean and safe kitchen environment.

  • Conduct regular inspections of work areas and equipment to ensure compliance with health codes and company policies.

• Menu Development:

  • Assist the Executive Chef in the development and testing of new menu items for the Launch Test Kitchen and other concepts.

  • Provide feedback on recipe improvements and operational efficiencies.

Qualifications

• Ability to lead kitchen operation in Head Chef?s absence.
• Ability to balance multiple tasks.
• Ability to deal and communicate optimally with staff and customers at all levels.
• Ability to follow accurately and issue instructions, written or oral. 
• Strong people leadership skills.
• NVQ Level 1,2 & 3 or equivalent
• Basic Food Hygiene
• 1-2 years? experience in a professional kitchen or productive catering
• Experience of purchasing and profit optimization. 
• Experience in industrial catering. 
• Experience of H.A.C.C.P documentation
• Experience of menu planning
• Dedication and self-motivation
• Good reliability and time keeping.
• To work on own initiative or as part of a team
• Courteous manner 
• Flexible approach to hours and duties
• Willingness to undergo training as the need arises 

About Aramark

Our Mission

Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.

At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

About Aramark

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food and facilities in 15 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at http://www.aramarkcareers.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.