Executive Sous Chef Job Description

Sous chefs often work with the career goal of becoming executive chefs.

Serving as an authority figure in the kitchen, the executive sous chef is assistant to the executive chef. The sous chef works to support the vision of the executive chef and the restaurant as a whole, responsible for both food and staff. Sous chefs often work with the career goal of becoming executive chefs.

Experience

Many sous chefs start out as fryers or dishwashers before climbing the ladder to becoming chefs. It is important for prospective sous chefs to understand all aspects of the kitchen. It is often a requirement for sous chefs to complete culinary school. Courses there focus upon knife techniques, nutrition, menu planning, food storage procedures and portion control. Culinary students are trained in food service management, and most programs require students to participate in internships. Fine dining establishments require the highest level of education and experience.

Skills

Sous chefs must be skilled in all styles of cooking, including Italian, French and fusion. They must be strong leaders and effective communicators. They must efficiently delegate tasks to the kitchen staff, pay great attention to detail, make quick decisions under pressure and be patient when dealing with staff and sometimes customers. They must be able to stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

Since the sous chef oversees all kitchen staff and may be responsible for scheduling, he must know their duties and be able to perform them. He must ensure that food is of high quality, encouraging and disciplining staff who have not prepared a course to the proper specifications. He must also pay close attention to the cost standards associated with each menu item, manage inventory and ensure the kitchen operates according to safety and sanitation standards. With the executive chef, he assists in menu planning and the creation of new dishes. He assumes the role of executive chef in his absence.

Salary

Compensation packages vary based on the restaurant, location and skill set. The average annual salary for head chefs in May 2008 was $38,770, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Full-time sous chefs are eligible for medical benefits.

Job Outlook

Sous chefs with experience, demonstrated leadership qualities and creativity, as well as technical skills, may advance to become executive chefs. The BLS predicts a six percent growth between 2008 and 2018 in employment of chefs and serving supervisors.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Chefs, Head Cooks and Food Preparation and Serving Supervisors
• Reluctant Gourmet: Sous Chef Job Description
• Hcareers: Sous Chef Job Description