Sous Chef

KOZY Restaurant & Bar

Modern Korean Dining Bar – Libertyville, IL

Position: Sous Chef

Experience Required: 4+ years professional kitchen experience

About Kozy

Kozy is a modern Korean dining bar focused on refined hospitality, elevated yet approachable cuisine, and thoughtful execution.

Led by a hands-on chef-owner with Michelin-influenced and farm-to-table background, we are building a disciplined yet supportive kitchen culture rooted in craft, respect, and consistency.

We are seeking a Sous Chef who is organized, composed under pressure, and committed to building something meaningful from the ground up.

Position Overview

The Sous Chef will work directly with the Chef-Owner to oversee daily kitchen operations and maintain high execution standards. This role requires strong leadership, attention to detail, and the ability to guide a team through busy dinner service.

Responsibilities

Oversee daily mise en place and prep execution

Lead the line during dinner service when needed

Train and mentor line cooks

Maintain consistency in plating and portion standards

Monitor ticket flow and kitchen timing

Assist with inventory, ordering, and food cost control

Ensure sanitation and food safety compliance

Support seasonal menu updates and testing

Requirements

4+ years of professional kitchen experience

1–2 years in a leadership role (Lead Line or Sous preferred)

Strong foundational cooking skills and knife skills

Ability to manage service calmly and efficiently

Understanding of basic food cost and inventory systems

Evening and weekend availability

Food Handler Certification required

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in upscale casual or fine dining environments

Familiarity with Korean cuisine, fermentation, or Asian flavors is preferred but not required

Strong interest in learning and executing modern Korean flavors

Experience in an opening restaurant environment

Compensation

$55,000 – $65,000 annually (based on experience)

or

$22 – $24 per hour

Paid time off

Staff meals
bonus (food cost control)

Growth opportunity as Kozy expands

Our Kitchen Culture

At Kozy, we believe:

Discipline creates consistency

Clean kitchens create clear minds

Leaders serve their team

Growth comes from accountability

We are building a kitchen that values craft without ego.