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If you’ve ever Googled “Sous Chef job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again.
A list of duties. A few generic requirements. Maybe a line about “fast-paced kitchens” and “team players.” That’s it.
But here’s the problem: great sous chefs don’t apply to jobs that feel generic. They’re professionals who thrive on structure, creativity, and leadership—and they want to know what kind of kitchen they’re stepping into.
So if your job post reads like a checklist or sounds like every other listing online, chances are, you’re losing out on serious talent.
The good news? Writing a compelling, clear, and human job description isn’t complicated—you just need the right structure and some intention behind it.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- What a sous chef really does (in plain English)
- Two standout job description templates (one for senior hires, one for trainable talent)
- A full breakdown of what makes them effective
- A comparison with a bad job post (so you know what to avoid)
- Plus, bonus tips, AI writing guidance, and a copy-paste template you can tailor to your own kitchen
Before we dive in, we recommend reading our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/
if you haven’t already—it sets the foundation for everything we’re about to cover.
Let’s get started.
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What A Sous Chef Actually Does - Their Roles
A Sous Chef isn’t just the second-in-command in a kitchen—they’re the backbone that keeps the entire operation running smoothly.
They support the Head Chef, supervise kitchen staff, and make sure every plate leaves the pass consistently, safely, and on time. They’re equal parts organizer, leader, problem-solver, and quality-control expert.
A good Sous Chef doesn’t just cook—they manage prep, help design menus, train junior staff, enforce hygiene standards, and jump in wherever they’re needed most. They know how to lead a service when the Head Chef steps away and how to keep the team calm when tickets start flying.
In short:
A great Sous Chef ensures that the kitchen runs like a well-oiled machine—even on the busiest nights.
That’s why when hiring for this role, you’re not just looking for knife skills or culinary experience—you’re looking for leadership, communication, adaptability, and attention to detail under pressure.
Two Great Sous Chef Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Sous Chef
Job Title: Sous Chef for Ravenwood Bistro – Scratch Kitchen in Seattle
Location: Seattle, WA | Full-Time | $55,000–$68,000/year (DOE)
Schedule: 5 shifts/week, mostly evenings + weekends
🎥 A Message From Our Executive Chef
Before you apply, take a minute to watch this short video from Chef Elena about our kitchen culture and what we’re looking for in a Sous Chef:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Who We Are
Ravenwood Bistro is a chef-driven, farm-to-table restaurant located in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge neighborhood. Known for our wood-fired dishes, house-made pasta, and tight-knit kitchen crew, we’ve built a loyal following for doing things the right way. Our kitchen is high-volume but focused on craft—our sauces are made from scratch, our produce is sourced locally, and our team is small, skilled, and serious about food. We’re looking for a professional Sous Chef who can lead the line, support the Head Chef, and help elevate every plate that leaves the pass.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead service alongside the Head Chef and supervise daily kitchen operations
- Manage prep, plating, food safety, and service quality
- Train, coach, and mentor line cooks and junior staff
- Handle ordering, inventory, and vendor communication
- Assist with menu R&D and seasonal updates
- Step in as acting Head Chef when needed
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years in a Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager role
- Solid leadership and communication skills
- Deep understanding of kitchen operations and culinary standards
- Calm under pressure and proactive during service
- Values consistency, cleanliness, and teamwork
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary + tip share + quarterly bonus potential
- Health and dental insurance after 90 days
- Paid time off (up to 15 days/year)
- Staff meals every shift
- 40% discount on dining and catering
- Annual professional development stipend ($500)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is more than just a job—it’s a chance to join a serious culinary team where your voice is heard and your skills are respected. We don’t micromanage. We don’t scream on the line. We’re professionals who value mutual respect, clear communication, and doing things right. If you’re tired of toxic kitchens and want to be part of a team that truly works together, Ravenwood might be the home you’ve been looking for.
Our Hiring Process
We value your time and effort. After applying, you’ll complete a short WorkScreen evaluation so we can get a sense of your experience and style. We reply to every applicant within 5–7 business days. If shortlisted, we’ll invite you to an interview and paid trial shift in our kitchen.
📥 How to Apply
Ready to join the team? Apply via this link and complete your quick evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing to Train Sous Chef
Job Title: Sous Chef-in-Training at Ember Street Kitchen – Learn on the Job
Location: Austin, TX | Full-Time | $19–$22/hour (DOE)
Schedule: 5 days/week, evening and weekend shifts required
🎥 Meet Chef Marcus — Your Future Mentor
Watch this short video where Chef Marcus shares why he built Ember Street and what kind of team he’s growing:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Who We Are
Ember Street Kitchen is a neighborhood staple in East Austin—a modern soul food restaurant with bold flavors, open grills, and a focus on community. Founded by Chef Marcus Reed, we’re known for reinventing classics like smoked brisket sliders, cast-iron cornbread, and maple-glazed collards. We’re not a big chain—we’re a local team that values hustle, honesty, and heart. We believe in training people from the ground up. If you’ve got the drive, we’ve got the mentorship.
What You’ll Be Doing (and Learning)
- Assist with prep, plating, and line support
- Learn safe food handling and sanitation practices
- Work closely with the Head Chef during live service
- Support the team with daily station setup and closing
- Train to take on more leadership responsibility over time
What We’re Looking For
- 1+ year in a kitchen role (line cook, prep cook, or dishwasher)
- Hungry to learn and grow fast
- Works clean, communicates well, shows up on time
- Strong work ethic and team spirit
- Bonus: You’ve helped train new staff or led a shift
Perks & Benefits
- Weekly staff meals and snacks
- Flex scheduling and shift coverage support
- Paid sick time + PTO (up to 10 days/year)
- Monthly chef’s table workshop + mentorship program
- $250/year culinary education credit (books, knives, classes)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This role is for the person who’s ready to level up. Maybe you’ve worked kitchens but never had someone take the time to train you properly. At Ember Street, you’ll get real hands-on experience, mentorship from a Head Chef who cares, and the chance to grow into a leadership position. We don’t expect perfection—we expect effort. We’ll teach you the rest.
Our Hiring Process
We respect your time. Once you apply and complete the short WorkScreen evaluation, we’ll get back to you within a few days. Our interviews are casual and focused on fit. If selected, we offer a paid trial shift to see if it’s a good match.
📥 How to Apply
Click the link below to apply and complete your quick evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Sous Chef Job Posts Work
Let’s break down why both Sous Chef job descriptions (Ravenwood Bistro and Ember Street Kitchen) actually work—and why they’re more effective than the generic templates floating around online.
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Specific and Compelling
Instead of the flat “Sous Chef,” we get:
- “Sous Chef for Ravenwood Bistro – Scratch Kitchen in Seattle”
- “Sous Chef-in-Training at Ember Street Kitchen – Learn on the Job”
These titles aren’t just job labels—they signal the company, kitchen culture, and opportunity. This attracts candidates who align with the mission and know what they’re stepping into.
✅ 2. The Video Adds a Human Touch
Each job post includes a short video from the Head Chef or team lead. Why this matters:
- Helps candidates connect with the team before applying
- Builds trust and authenticity
- Differentiates your post from every other wall of text on job boards
Even a 60-second Loom or smartphone video makes a huge impact.
✅ 3. The “Who We Are” Section Tells a Real Story
These aren’t faceless brands—they’re specific kitchens with personality:
- Ravenwood Bistro emphasizes scratch-made food, teamwork, and quality
- Ember Street highlights mentorship, community, and soul food heritage
This helps job seekers picture themselves in the environment and decide if the team and values resonate.
✅ 4. Responsibilities Go Beyond Task Lists
Instead of dry bullets like “Manage inventory” or “Maintain cleanliness,” each task is framed with purpose:
- “Lead service alongside the Head Chef”
- “Train to take on more leadership responsibility over time”
This signals impact—and shows the candidate how they’ll contribute to the bigger picture.
✅ 5. The Requirements Are Clear but Not Intimidating
Each role sets expectations, but also welcomes the right attitude:
- Ravenwood sets the bar for experienced chefs
- Ember Street signals growth potential and says, “We’ll train you if you show up hungry to learn”
That kind of phrasing widens the talent pool and encourages applications from high-potential, under-the-radar candidates.
✅ 6. Perks & Benefits Are Listed Transparently
Modern candidates want to know:
- What they’ll earn
- What support systems are in place
- Whether the company invests in their growth
Each post lists benefits clearly and separates them from general “why this is great” language. This builds trust and improves applicant quality.
✅ 7. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Is a Real Pitch
This section goes beyond fluff—it speaks directly to the applicant’s frustrations (toxic kitchens, no mentorship, being overlooked) and aspirations (growth, belonging, impact).
This kind of messaging shows you understand the candidate, which increases conversion rates.
✅ 8. The Hiring Process Is Respectful and Clear
Both posts:
- Promise a reply
- Explain the WorkScreen evaluation step
- Outline the interview + trial process
This creates a calm, predictable application journey—a huge advantage in industries where ghosting is common.
✅ 9. The CTA Feels Personal and Supportive
Instead of the cold “Send your CV to info@,” these job posts:
- Use plain English
- Offer reassurance (“we’ll keep you updated”)
- Provide a clear, trustworthy link via WorkScreen
This lowers friction and boosts completions.
Bad Sous Chef Job Description Example – And Why It Fails
Job Title: Sous Chef
Company: Downtown Eatery
Location: Chicago, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are currently seeking a Sous Chef to assist the Head Chef in all kitchen operations. The ideal candidate should have culinary experience, strong leadership skills, and be able to work in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Head Chef in daily kitchen tasks
- Maintain cleanliness and food safety standards
- Supervise kitchen staff during service
- Manage inventory and ordering
Requirements
- 3+ years of kitchen experience
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation
- Ability to multitask
- Team player
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their CV and cover letter to hiring@downtowneatery.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🚩 Why This Job Description Falls Flat
❌ 1. Generic Title
Just “Sous Chef” — with no personality, no company context, and no hook. It could be anywhere, and says nothing about what makes this job (or team) worth applying for.
❌ 2. Cold, Vague Introduction
The “Job Summary” reads like a copied-and-pasted HR template. No mention of the restaurant’s mission, food style, or kitchen vibe. Candidates can’t connect with it emotionally.
❌ 3. No Culture, No Story
There’s zero insight into what the kitchen culture is like. Is it collaborative or traditional? Is this a growth-focused kitchen or just about keeping up with service? Applicants are left guessing.
❌ 4. Responsibilities Are Generic
These bullet points could apply to any kitchen, in any city. They don’t tell a story, show impact, or speak to what actually makes the role unique.
❌ 5. No Mention of Salary, Perks, or Benefits
This omission signals a lack of transparency. In today’s hiring market, top candidates expect to see at least a salary range or an explanation of compensation.
❌ 6. Cold, Dismissive Application Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is a red flag. It immediately discourages high-quality candidates who value clear communication and respectful hiring.
❌ 7. No Call to Action That Inspires
There’s no warmth, excitement, or motivation in the final line. It treats the applicant like a formality, not a potential team member.
💡 Bottom Line?
This is the kind of job post that gets skipped—not because the role is bad, but because the communication is cold and forgettable. In a competitive market, bland job posts lose you great candidates before you even meet them.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Sous Chef Job Description Stand Out
🔐 1. Add an “Important Notice” About Privacy & Applicant Safety
In today’s hiring landscape, job seekers are cautious—and rightfully so. Including a short notice builds trust and shows you take candidate safety seriously.
You can add something like this at the bottom of your post:
Important: We take the privacy and security of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, financial information, or any personal ID details during the hiring process. All communication will come from our official company domain.
🌴 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time (Even If It’s Modest)
Many restaurants forget to talk about time off. Even a small benefit—like paid sick days, shift swaps, or flex days—can make a big difference in how your role is perceived.
Example phrasing:
Enjoy up to 10 paid days off per year—including sick days and flex days—so you can recharge and come back strong.
📈 3. Highlight Training, Promotion, or Growth Opportunities
The best candidates want to build a career, not just hold a job. If you promote from within, offer cross-training, or sponsor certifications—say so.
Example:
We invest in our people. Many of our current Sous Chefs started as line cooks here. We offer internal training, mentorship from senior chefs, and a clear path to Head Chef or Culinary Director roles.
🎥 4. Add a Short Video from the Chef or Hiring Manager
We’ve mentioned this before, but it’s worth repeating: even a 60-second Loom video adds a layer of connection no text ever can.
Candidates want to see who they’d be working with. It shows you’re serious, human, and proud of your team. Bonus: it helps you stand out on platforms like Indeed or LinkedIn.
Tip: Keep it casual. It doesn’t need to be cinematic—just authentic.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
💬 5. Include a Line That Shows You Respect Candidates’ Time
One of the top complaints from job seekers is not hearing back. A single sentence that addresses this earns instant credibility.
Try something like:
We review every application and will respond to all candidates—whether or not we move forward. We believe everyone deserves clarity and respect.
These small touches can dramatically improve applicant quality and engagement, especially for kitchen roles where trust, respect, and culture matter just as much as skills.
Should You Use AI to Write a Sous Chef Job Description?
Short answer?
Yes—but only if you use it the right way.
🚫 Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
AI writing tools like ChatGPT, Jasper, and even built-in ATS features (like Workable or Manatal) can generate job descriptions instantly. But if you give them zero context, here’s what happens:
- You get generic, soulless job posts
- They sound like every other ad on the internet
- They attract low-effort, spray-and-pray applicants
- They miss your company culture, tone, and story
Worse? They may make your post look like a ghost job—something auto-generated and never reviewed by a real person.
Remember: your job description is often a candidate’s first impression of your team and values. Don’t let it fall flat because you rushed it with AI.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI: As a Collaborator, Not a Replacement
AI can be incredibly useful—if you guide it well. Instead of saying:
“Write a job post for a Sous Chef.”
Give it real context. Here’s a better prompt:
🧠 Smart AI Prompt Example
Help me write a job description for a Sous Chef at my restaurant, Ember Street Kitchen in Austin. We’re a soul food restaurant focused on reinventing classics with bold flavors. Our culture is team-first, growth-oriented, and grounded in mentorship. We’re hiring someone who’s worked in kitchens, is hungry to grow, and wants to take on leadership responsibilities over time. We offer weekly staff meals, paid sick time, and an internal mentorship program. The salary range is $19–$22/hour. Our hiring process includes a short evaluation and a paid trial shift. I’ve written a few notes below [paste notes here]—can you help me turn it into a warm, engaging job post that reflects our culture?
Now AI has the raw ingredients to create something meaningful—something that sounds like you.
Use AI to:
- Polish your writing
- Improve tone and flow
- Clarify structure
- Expand on your own notes
But never let it replace your voice or skip your input entirely.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
We get it. Sometimes you don’t have hours to fine-tune every sentence—you just need a solid, ready-to-use job post you can copy, paste, and personalize.
That’s what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Culture-First Job Description Template
Job Title: Sous Chef at [Company Name] – Scratch Kitchen
Location: [City, State] | Full-Time | $[XX,XXX]–$[XX,XXX]/year (DOE)
Schedule: 5 shifts/week, evenings and weekends required
🎥 Hear From Our Head Chef
Before applying, check out this quick video from our kitchen lead sharing what it’s like to work here:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a neighborhood restaurant focused on honest cooking, seasonal ingredients, and a no-drama kitchen culture. Our menu features scratch-made dishes, rotating specials, and a kitchen team that believes in doing things right. We’re small but mighty—and we’re proud of that.
We’re looking for a Sous Chef who brings calm, care, and consistency to the line—and who values collaboration just as much as execution.
What You’ll Do
- Lead the kitchen team during prep and service
- Coach junior cooks and support skill-building
- Maintain high standards for quality, plating, and food safety
- Assist with inventory, ordering, and kitchen organization
- Contribute to menu development and seasonal changes
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years of kitchen leadership experience
- Strong communication and time management skills
- Ability to stay composed under pressure
- Passion for food, mentorship, and team success
Perks & Benefits
- Health and dental insurance after 90 days
- Paid time off + sick leave
- Weekly staff meals + employee discounts
- Quarterly bonuses based on performance
- Access to training, books, and continuing culinary education
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t a “fill a shift” kind of role—it’s a leadership opportunity in a kitchen that respects its people. If you’re tired of toxic kitchens, underpaid prep shifts, or being overlooked for promotions, this is your chance to grow in a place that values skill, effort, and team spirit.
📥 How to Apply
Apply through this link and complete a quick evaluation to help us understand your strengths:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured Job Description Template
Job Title: Sous Chef – [Company Name]
Location: [City, State] | Full-Time | $[XX,XXX]–$[XX,XXX]/year
Schedule: [Insert Days/Hours]
🎥 Meet the Kitchen Lead
Watch this brief video to hear what it’s like working at [Company Name] and what we’re looking for in our next Sous Chef:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Job Brief
[Company Name] is hiring a Sous Chef to support daily back-of-house operations and lead the team during prep and service. The ideal candidate is experienced in high-volume kitchens, comfortable supervising a team, and focused on quality, safety, and consistency.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist the Head Chef in managing kitchen staff
- Supervise prep and live service
- Enforce food safety and cleanliness standards
- Support ordering and inventory processes
- Help train new staff and enforce kitchen standards
Requirements
- 3+ years in a professional kitchen
- Prior leadership experience preferred
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
- Familiarity with kitchen sanitation and safety
- Able to lead calmly in fast-paced environments
Perks & Benefits
- Paid time off and sick days
- Health and vision coverage (after probation period)
- Shift meals and kitchen discounts
- Training and internal promotion opportunities
- Supportive team environment
📥 How to Apply
To apply, follow this link and complete a brief WorkScreen evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
Ready to Hire? Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
You’ve written a thoughtful, well-structured job post. You’ve made it clear, compelling, and candidate-friendly.
Now comes the hard part: evaluating applicants without getting buried in resumes, ghost applications, or AI-generated cover letters.
That’s where WorkScreen comes in.
✅ WorkScreen helps you:
● Spot top candidates fast
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
● Easily administer one-click skill tests.
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
● Filter out low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
● Save hours on screening
WorkScreen gives you structured insights into each applicant’s responses, making it easier to compare, shortlist, and hire—without spending hours reading resumes or chasing follow-ups.
📥 Get started today
Whether you’re hiring for one role or building an entire kitchen team, WorkScreen gives you the clarity and control to hire better, faster, and smarter.
— write your job post, share your link, and let WorkScreen do the rest.
👉 [Insert link to sign up or post a job]
Sous Chef Job Description – Frequently Asked Questions
When hiring a Sous Chef, look beyond just culinary experience. Strong candidates will have a mix of technical skills, leadership ability, and emotional intelligence. Key traits include:
- Team leadership – Can they manage, coach, and motivate a team during stressful shifts?
- Calm under pressure – Kitchens get chaotic—great Sous Chefs stay composed and decisive.
- Attention to detail – From plating to prep standards, small mistakes can ruin a service.
- Strong communication – They should be able to coordinate across stations and with FOH staff.
- Adaptability – A good Sous Chef can jump on the grill, handle a last-minute change, or fill in for the Head Chef when needed.
- Time and station management – They should know how to prioritize and keep the line flowing.
Soft skills like reliability, humility, and a willingness to teach are also important—especially in kitchens that promote from within.
The average salary of a Sous Chef varies by location, establishment type, and experience level.
- In the United States, the average base salary ranges from $45,000 to $60,000/year.
- In major metro areas (like New York, San Francisco, or Seattle), experienced Sous Chefs can earn $65,000–$75,000+, especially in high-end or high-volume restaurants.
- For hourly roles (in smaller restaurants or entry-level kitchens), pay often ranges from $18–$24/hour, plus tips or bonuses.
Offering transparency about pay, benefits, and shift expectations in your job post will attract more serious, qualified candidates.
3. What’s the difference between a Sous Chef and a Line Cook?
A Line Cook is responsible for prepping and cooking specific dishes or components during service, usually assigned to a station (grill, sauté, fry, etc.).
A Sous Chef, on the other hand:
- Oversees the entire kitchen during prep and service
- Supervises and supports the line cooks
- Assists in ordering, inventory, training, and quality control
- Acts as second-in-command to the Head Chef
Sous Chefs are expected to lead, while Line Cooks are expected to execute.
It depends on your kitchen’s current team, pace, and goals.
- Hire externally if you need fresh leadership, faster impact, or technical skills your team lacks.
- Promote internally if you have a strong line cook with leadership potential and want to build loyalty.
Whichever path you choose, make sure the candidate is aligned with your culture, expectations, and communication style. The wrong personality in a leadership role can damage morale and cause turnover.
