Sous Chef

Situated in Downtown's 2nd Street District, Austin Proper Hotel and Residences offers an artful immersion in lifestyle and wellbeing. With an emphasis on collaboration, Austin Proper features both inspired interiors by acclaimed designer Kelly Wearstler and is guided by the culinary creativity of Austin tastemaker MML Hospitality. Essentials include 238 rooms and suites; 99 branded residences; four unique settings for dining and drink; a focus on wellness with a dedicated spa and fitness center; and a variety of atmospheric event spaces. And it wouldn't be Proper without a 5th floor pool deck offering small-batch tequilas and sunset views.Position OverviewThe Sous Chef is responsible for supporting the Chef de Cuisine in overseeing the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring the preparation and presentation of high-quality dishes in a timely and efficient manner. This role involves supervising kitchen staff, managing food preparation, assisting with inventory control, and ensuring food safety standards. The Sous Chef is expected to contribute to menu development, maintain consistency in food quality, and assist in managing kitchen operations to meet the demands of La Piscina's guests while ensuring a smooth, efficient, and collaborative kitchen environment.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesKitchen Operations ManagementSupport the Chef de Cuisine in overseeing day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring food is prepared and presented to the highest quality standardsSupervise kitchen staff, including line cooks, prep cooks, and other kitchen personnel, ensuring proper execution of menu items and kitchen processesMaintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment, ensuring that food preparation areas are well-stocked and sanitizedCoordinate the preparation and service of dishes during peak hours, ensuring timely delivery while maintaining high standards of taste and presentationStep into leadership roles in the absence of the Executive Chef or Head Chef, assuming full responsibility for kitchen operationsStaff Supervision & DevelopmentSupervise kitchen team members, ensuring that all staff is performing tasks efficiently and adhering to standard operating proceduresAssist with training new kitchen staff, ensuring they are familiar with menu items, equipment usage, safety protocols, and kitchen cleanliness standardsProvide ongoing feedback to staff regarding performance, productivity, and opportunities for developmentEnsure kitchen staff adheres to food safety guidelines, health standards, and personal hygiene practicesAssist in scheduling kitchen shifts to ensure adequate coverage during peak hours while maintaining labor cost controlFood Preparation & CookingOversee the preparation and cooking of menu items, ensuring consistency in taste, quality, and presentationEnsure all food items are prepared according to recipe specifications and portion control standardsManage food preparation stations to ensure an efficient flow of operations, particularly during high-volume service periodsAssist in the development of new menu items, adjusting recipes and preparing seasonal dishes that reflect guest preferences and trendsEnsure that all dishes meet food safety and presentation standards, troubleshooting any issues as neededInventory & Stock ControlHelp monitor kitchen inventory, ensuring that supplies are stocked in accordance with demand while minimizing waste and overstockingAssist in managing food orders, working closely with the Executive Chef or Head Chef to maintain stock levels and manage product costsAssist in conducting regular inventory checks to ensure that all food items, kitchen supplies, and equipment are in good conditionMaintain proper storage of ingredients and finished products, ensuring all food is stored according to safety standardsFood Safety & CleanlinessAdhere to food safety protocols, ensuring proper food handling, sanitation, and hygiene practices are followed at all timesEnsure kitchen equipment is cleaned and maintained regularly to avoid breakdowns and maintain operational efficiencyMonitor staff to ensure that health and safety standards are followed, including regular cleaning of workstations, kitchen surfaces, and equipmentConduct daily inspections to verify that all food is stored at the correct temperatures and that there are no violations of food safety regulationsGuest Experience & SatisfactionEnsure the delivery of high-quality meals that meet guest expectations, providing a memorable dining experienceAddress any guest concerns related to food quality or service in a professional and efficient mannerCollaborate with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth communication between the kitchen and dining room, adjusting as necessary to meet guest requests or special dietary needsWork with the team to ensure special requests, such as dietary restrictions or allergies, are accommodated without affecting the quality of the mealCollaboration & CommunicationCommunicate effectively with both kitchen and front-of-house teams to ensure smooth and efficient restaurant operationsWork with the Executive Chef or Head Chef to maintain consistent food quality and address operational challengesAssist in coordinating with restaurant management to accommodate large parties, special events, or catering needsParticipate in pre-service meetings to discuss daily specials, menu items, and any special requirementsEducation and/or ExperienceCulinary degree or equivalent professional training and experience3+ years of experience in a culinary leadership or supervisory role, with a minimum of 1-2 years as a Sous Chef or in a similar roleProven experience in high-volume kitchen operations, with expertise in menu preparation, food presentation, and kitchen organizationStrong understanding of food safety practices and kitchen hygiene standardsExperience in managing kitchen staff and maintaining operational efficiency in a fast-paced environmentSkills/Specialized KnowledgeStrong culinary expertise, with in-depth knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and food safety standardsExcellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and mentor kitchen staffAbility to handle high-pressure situations and manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environmentStrong communication skills to effectively interact with both kitchen staff and front-of-house personnelExceptional organizational skills, with the ability to maintain cleanliness, order, and efficiency in the kitchenProficiency in inventory management, food cost control, and kitchen budgetingAbility to adapt to menu changes and creatively respond to customer preferencesPhysical DemandsAbility to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced kitchen environment, standing for long periods and working under tight deadlinesAbility to lift, carry, and move heavy objects (up to 50 lbs)Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by restaurant operationsAbility to work in hot, noisy, and sometimes stressful conditions during peak service hoursCompany OverviewProper Hospitality is a diverse team of passionate individuals who share a common love for hotels and the art of hospitality. Our philosophy is simple: there is a right way to do things, and anything less just isn't proper. We are seeking the best of the best"”both within and outside the industry"”to join us in building a new kind of lifestyle hospitality company, inspired by a centuries-old tradition. Our work is challenging and fast-paced, but above all, it is rewarding.We bring our vision to life "”to inspire and transport people "”by seeking like-minded candidates who embody our ethos, The Pillars of Proper:Care Proper: We are natural and gracious hosts to all.Achieve Proper: We are committed to excellence.Imagine Proper: We are resourceful.Present Proper: We have an appreciation for style and culture.Proper Hospitality is an equal-opportunity employer. We provide employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federally or state-protected category.We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in accordance with local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinances.

Created: 2025-09-26