Sous Chef

Location: The Pumphouse Brewpub
Reports To: Executive Chef

Job Overview:

The Pumphouse Brewpub is seeking a passionate and skilled Sous Chef to join our culinary team. As a Sous Chef, you will play a vital role in supporting the Executive Chef to ensure smooth kitchen operations, create delicious dishes, and maintain high standards of food quality and presentation. This position requires a creative and dedicated culinary professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is passionate about food and beer pairings, and is committed to delivering an exceptional dining experience for our guests.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Management:

• Supervise and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring they perform at their highest potential.
• Assist the Executive Chef in creating and managing daily and weekly kitchen schedules, ensuring proper staffing levels.
• Lead by example in maintaining a positive work environment, encouraging collaboration and teamwork.

Kitchen Operations & Quality Control:

• Oversee the preparation, cooking, and presentation of food in accordance with The Pumphouse's standards.
• Maintain a high standard of cleanliness, organization, and safety in the kitchen at all times.
• Monitor inventory levels and assist in ordering supplies as needed to maintain efficient operations.
• Ensure that all food is prepared and served in a timely manner, with a focus on consistency, flavor, and presentation.

Menu Development & Innovation:

• Collaborate with the Executive Chef in developing new menu items, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes that pair well with our craft beers.
• Stay up-to-date on industry trends, customer preferences, and culinary techniques, contributing new ideas for menu items, specials, and promotions.
• Assist in developing and executing food pairings with the Pumphouse's unique range of craft beers.

Health, Safety, and Sanitation:

• Adhere to and enforce all health and safety guidelines, ensuring kitchen cleanliness, safe food handling, and compliance with all regulatory standards.
• Monitor kitchen equipment for proper functioning and maintenance.
• Ensure the proper storage of all ingredients, minimizing food waste and maintaining the highest levels of hygiene.

Collaboration with Front of House:

• Work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure that customer orders are fulfilled promptly and to their satisfaction.
• Assist in the creation and execution of special events, such as beer dinners, private parties, and food tastings.

Professional Development:

• Continuously strive for personal and professional growth by attending training, workshops, and culinary events as appropriate.
• Provide constructive feedback to staff and encourage ongoing development.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef or in a similar kitchen leadership role, ideally in a high-volume or brewpub setting.
• Comprehensive knowledge of kitchen equipment, cooking techniques, and food preparation processes.
• Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining a positive attitude.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Creativity and passion for food innovation, with an understanding of craft beer and its role in food pairings.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed (flexible shifts required).
• Culinary degree or relevant certification preferred but not required.

Expectations for Availability:

• Flexibility is crucial for this role. The Sous Chef will be expected to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed to accommodate the brewpub's operating hours and special events.
• Participation in special events, seasonal menu rollouts, and beer pairings may require additional availability.

Innovation & Contribution to the Pumphouse Brand:

• The Pumphouse Brewpub prides itself on innovation, both in the kitchen and in the beer offerings. We are looking for a Sous Chef who will actively contribute fresh, exciting ideas to enhance our menu and elevate the customer experience.
• A passion for experimentation and a willingness to collaborate with the brewery team on creative culinary/beer pairing ideas will be highly valued.

Why Join Us?

The Pumphouse is a dynamic, collaborative environment where creativity and passion for food and beer are encouraged and celebrated. We offer opportunities for growth, professional development, and the chance to work alongside a team of like-minded individuals. Enjoy a supportive and fun work culture where innovation and new ideas are always welcome. If you're ready to bring your skills to a team that values creativity, quality, and the unique intersection of craft beer and food, we want to hear from you!