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Catering Sous Chef

About Rocky Top Catering

Rocky Top Catering is a premier full-service catering company known for delivering exceptional food and hospitality at events throughout the Triangle and beyond. From intimate gatherings to large-scale events serving thousands of guests, our culinary team takes pride in creating memorable experiences through high-quality food, teamwork, and professional service.

We are looking for an experienced Catering Sous Chef to join our culinary team. This position is ideal for a motivated culinary professional who enjoys a fast-paced environment, leading a team, and bringing high-quality food to a wide variety of catered events.

Position Overview

The Catering Sous Chef serves as a key leader in the kitchen and works closely with the Executive Chef to ensure food is prepared and executed to Rocky Top Catering standards. The Sous Chef will use strong culinary, organizational, and leadership skills to help oversee kitchen operations, support catered events, train and manage culinary staff, and maintain a high level of food quality and safety.

This is a hands-on leadership position that requires flexibility, strong communication, and the ability to confidently manage a kitchen in a fast-paced catering environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation, development, and execution of food and beverage menus.
• Assist with planning and executing catered events ranging from 10 to 7,000+ guests.
• Produce consistently high-quality food with attention to flavor, presentation, and portion standards.
• Follow Rocky Top Catering recipes, specifications, and food preparation standards.
• Ensure kitchen operations are organized, efficient, timely, and meet company quality standards.
• Step in for the Executive Chef when needed to help plan, organize, and direct food preparation.
• Lead and supervise kitchen staff during production and events.
• Train, coach, and support culinary team members while maintaining a positive and professional work environment.
• Help create staff schedules and provide feedback regarding employee performance.
• Troubleshoot issues as they arise and take ownership of finding effective solutions.
• Monitor inventory and order supplies as needed to ensure appropriate product levels.
• Maintain organization and cleanliness of kitchen and food preparation areas.
• Follow and enforce all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards.
• Maintain a positive, professional approach with coworkers, clients, and guests.
• Understand and utilize P&L information to help support efficient and cost-conscious kitchen operations.

Qualifications & Requirements

• 2+ years of experience as a Sous Chef, preferably in a catering or high-volume culinary environment.
• Strong understanding of cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and kitchen procedures.
• Proven ability to effectively lead, manage, and develop kitchen staff.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to remain calm, make decisions, and find solutions during high-pressure situations.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and consistency.
• Knowledge of current culinary practices and industry trends.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Must have reliable transportation and a clean driving record.
• ServSafe Certification required.
• Ability and willingness to work a flexible catering schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as event schedules require.

Preferred Skills

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and other common computer software.
• Experience with high-volume catering, banquets, or large-scale events.
• Experience with inventory management and food cost control.
• Experience reading and understanding P&L statements.

Compensation & Schedule

Pay: $25 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.

Schedule: Part-time with the potential for full-time hours based on business needs, availability, and performance.

Catering schedules can vary and may include weekdays, evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on event needs.

Why Join Rocky Top Catering?

At Rocky Top Catering, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside an experienced culinary team and be part of a company that produces everything from intimate private events to large-scale catered experiences.