Sous Chef

Job Title: Sous Chef
Reports To: Executive Chef
Department: Operations

Company Overview

4 Star Restaurant Group is a Chicago-based hospitality company operating full-service, from-scratch restaurants including The Smoke Daddy (Wicker and Wrigley), The Perch , Remington’s , Crosby’s Kitchen , Ella Elli , Frasca , and Tuco & Blondie . People are our focus, and guests are our priority. Our #1 goal is to provide an exceptional dining experience at a reasonable price. We are committed to genuine hospitality, exceptional food, and fostering an extraordinary work environment while upholding our core values every shift.

Position Summary

Sous Chefs (Sous) play a critical role in the daily operations of the back of house. They are hands-on leaders responsible for executing food quality, maintaining organization and cleanliness, and driving training, development, and culture. Sous Chefs work closely with the Executive Chef and restaurant management team to support operational and financial goals while fostering a positive and empowered kitchen environment.

Leadership & Team Development

• Live and promote 4 Star’s core values: Professionalism, Positive Attitude, Guest First, Quality/Excellence, Teamwork, and Integrity.

• Lead by example, setting a standard of professionalism and guest-first leadership.

• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on hiring, training, and developing hourly BOH team members.

• Execute hourly training and ensure daily adherence to culinary and operational standards.

• Maintain direct communication with managers and hourly team members.

• Participate in weekly manager meetings and assist with team evaluations.

• Identify operational issues and offer solutions to the Executive Chef.

Financial & Operational Oversight

• Support execution of cost control strategies, including labor, food, and supply costs.

• Complete inventory counts and identify variances with proposed solutions.

• Order according to par levels and within budgeted guidelines.

• Review budgets and financial targets with the Executive Chef and management team.

• Assist with quarterly kitchen audits and follow through on action plans.

• Maintain kitchen cleanliness, organization, and compliance with all health, safety, and labor laws.

• Use all company systems as directed—no unauthorized edits or alterations allowed.

Guest Experience & Kitchen Execution

• Maintain a visible, active presence on the line and throughout the kitchen.

• Step in to perform hourly functions when needed due to volume or staffing.

• Expedite during high-volume shifts to monitor food quality and ticket times.

• Use guest feedback to drive improvements in execution and presentation.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of Sous Chef experience in a fast-paced, full-service kitchen.

• Strong prior experience as a line cook in high-volume environments.

• Proven ability to manage inventory and order within budgeted parameters.

• Experience managing kitchen labor and contributing to financial targets.

• Proficient with basic restaurant technology: Microsoft Office, inventory systems , POS reporting.

• Current city and state food safety certifications.

• Excellent communication skills (verbal, written, and electronic).

• Passion for food, team development, and guest-focused service.

• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift up to 50 pounds throughout shifts.

• Comfortable working in variable temperature environments (hot/cold) and high-noise areas.

• Exposure to common allergens including peanuts, dairy, gluten, soy, seafood, and shellfish.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to outline the general nature of the work performed. It is not exhaustive, and 4 Star Restaurant Group reserves the right to modify job duties or descriptions at any time, with or without notice.

Equal Opportunity Employer

4 Star Restaurant Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.