Sous Chef

Sous Chef La Merenda

Salary: $50,000 $60,000 per year, based on experience

La Merenda is looking for a creative, passionate, and experienced Sous Chef to join our culinary team.

We are a well-established Milwaukee restaurant known for our globally inspired, multicultural cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and commitment to creating memorable dining experiences. We are looking for someone who is not only a strong cook, but also a natural leader who enjoys working collaboratively and wants to be part of a creative kitchen team.

The Sous Chef will work closely with the Chef and management team to oversee daily kitchen operations, maintain our culinary standards, develop menu ideas, and help lead and mentor our kitchen staff.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and assist with day-to-day kitchen and culinary operations
  
• Lead and support the kitchen team during service
  
• Maintain high standards for food quality, preparation, consistency, and presentation
  
• Assist with seasonal menu development and the creation of new dishes
  
• Help develop and standardize recipes, portions, and plating
  
• Work closely with the Chef and management on menu pricing and food costs
  
• Order food, supplies, and kitchenware as needed
  
• Receive and inspect deliveries and ensure the freshness and quality of ingredients
  
• Monitor inventory, track usage, and maintain appropriate inventory levels
  
• Train and mentor new and existing kitchen staff
  
• Cross-train kitchen staff on multiple stations and culinary techniques
  
• Ensure that all kitchen employees follow food safety, sanitation, and culinary standards
  
• Help maintain an organized, clean, and efficient kitchen
  
• Work with management to create a consistently excellent guest experience
  
• Assist with controlling food and labor costs
  
• Address kitchen-related guest questions or concerns when necessary
  
• Support the Chef and management team with special events and other culinary projects
  

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef, Chef de Partie, Lead Cook, or in a similar culinary leadership position
  
• Strong cooking skills and knowledge of professional kitchen operations
  
• Passion for food, culinary techniques, and creative cooking
  
• Experience with food cost, labor cost, inventory, and ordering
  
• Strong leadership and communication skills
  
• Ability to train, motivate, and work effectively with a diverse kitchen team
  
• Ability to stay organized and composed in a fast-paced environment
  
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to consistency
  
• Ability to work collaboratively with the Chef, management, and front-of-house team
  
• Food safety certification is a plus
  

Why Join Us?

At La Merenda, we believe that a great kitchen is built around creativity, teamwork, quality, and respect. This is an opportunity for a chef who wants to have a meaningful role in a kitchen where there is room to contribute ideas, develop dishes, and help shape the culinary experience.

If you are passionate about food, enjoy working with seasonal ingredients and multicultural flavors, and are ready to take the next step in your culinary career, we would love to hear from you.

Salary: $50,000 $60,000 annually, based on experience.