Christchurch - Sous Chef - Food by Fire
We're Hiring: Sous Chef (3-6 Month Fixed-Term Contract)
Are you a passionate and creative chef with a love for cooking over fire? We are looking for a dedicated Sous Chef to join our team on a 3-6 month fixed-term contract. This is a unique opportunity to work in some of New Zealand's most stunning locations, from the majestic landscapes of Queenstown and Mt Cook to the vibrant heart of Wellington.
In this role, you'll be part of a dynamic event and catering team that creates intimate, unforgettable dining experiences. We use custom-made equipment and are always developing new techniques, so a spirit of innovation is a must.
This position isn't just about cooking. It offers a chance to grow your career and gain exposure in new areas, including:- Customer-Facing Experience: Engaging directly with guests in our intimate event settings.
- Media and Public Relations: Opportunities for media work, including speaking to the press and being on camera.
- Specialized Culinary Skills: While not essential, experience in butchery, breaking down whole animals, and making sausages and fish cuts is highly valued.
- If you are a talented chef who thrives on change and has a passion for both fire-based cooking and creating a memorable experience for guests, we encourage you to apply.
- Culinary Execution: Assist the Head Chef in all aspects of food preparation and service, ensuring high standards of quality, presentation, and consistency.
- Customer Interaction: Interact with customers in a friendly and professional manner, answering questions about the menu, and ensuring their dining experience is exceptional.
- Menu Development: Contribute to the creation and implementation of new menu items and R&D of seasonal menus and snacks
- Kitchen + Event Management: Oversee kitchen and Event operations in the absence of the Head Chef, including managing staff, coordinating food orders, and maintaining inventory.
- Quality Control: Ensure all food safety and hygiene regulations are strictly followed, and that all dishes meet our high standards.
- Team Leadership: Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
- Adherence to Standards: Uphold Food by Fires policies and procedures regarding cleanliness, organization, and equipment maintenance.
- Proven experience as a Sous Chef or in a similar leadership role in a professional kitchen.
- Knowledge and experience with cooking with fire
- Woodfried pizza experience is a plus
- Strong knowledge of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and procedures.
- Excellent communication and leadership skills.
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- A creative flair and passion for food.
- Must know how to interact with customers.
- Must have a full NZ Driver's License.
Term: 3-6 month fixed-term contract.
Hours: The role has various and different hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays, depending on business needs. Flexibility is essential.Travel: The successful candidate will be required to travel throughout the South Island as part of their duties this will be driving company vehicles, Full NZ drivers license is essential.
If you are a motivated and skilled Sous Chef looking for a new challenge, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience.