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Sous Chef Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Uptown Alley_Uphoff Ventures LLC

Sous Chef

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Sous chefs may assist in calculating the cost of ingredients for menu items and determining appropriate menu pricing to ensure profitability while remaining competitive in the market. * Inventory ...

Salisbury Country Club

Sous Chef

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Sous Chef Salisbury Country Club - Midlothian, VA Position Summary Salisbury Country Club is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join our culinary leadership team. This position is ideal for a chef ...

HERMITAGE COUNTRY CLUB

Sous Chef

Manakin, VA

$65K/yr

Sous Chef Department: Food and Beverage Reports to: Executive Sous Chef Compensation : $65,000.00 annually Location: Manakin Sabot, VA 23103 Position Overview: Oversees food preparation, kitchen ...

Cuisine Solutions

Sous Chef

Sterling, VA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

Sous Chef SUMMARY : Reporting to the VP, Culinary, the Sous Chef will be responsible for menu creation, food presentations, recipe development, Food and Equipment inventory maintenance The Company:

Cuisine Solutions

Sous Chef

Sterling, VA · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Sous Chef SUMMARY : Reporting to the VP, Culinary, the Sous Chef will be responsible for menu creation, food presentations, recipe development, Food and Equipment inventory maintenance The Company:

New

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Banquet Sous Chef

Reston, VA · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

The goal of the Sous Chef is to manage a specific department and work with the Executive Chefto create, implement and maintain quality standards. In some instances the Sous Chef will be expected to ...

Anna's Ristorante Pasta, Vino & Pizza

Be Seen First

Sous Chef

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$4.5K - $5.5K/mo

Position Summary The Sous Chef works closely with the ownership to oversee daily kitchen operations. This position requires strong cooking skills, organization, leadership, and the ability to remain ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Sous Chef

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Our Sous Chefs are responsible for creating a positive environment that sets the expectations for quality food in a neat, clean, and organized kitchen. We expect our Sous Chefs to have excellent ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Sous Chef

Gainesville, VA

$49K - $66K/yr

Our Sous Chefs are responsible for creating a positive environment that sets the expectations for quality food in a neat, clean, and organized kitchen. We expect our Sous Chefs to have excellent ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Sous Chef

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Our Sous Chefs are responsible for creating a positive environment that sets the expectations for quality food in a neat, clean, and organized kitchen. We expect our Sous Chefs to have excellent ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Sous Chef

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Our Sous Chefs are responsible for creating a positive environment that sets the expectations for quality food in a neat, clean, and organized kitchen. We expect our Sous Chefs to have excellent ...

The Country Club of Virginia

Executive Sous Chef

Richmond, VA · On-site

$61K - $79K/yr

The position of Executive Sous Chef at CCV is a key leadership role within one of the nation's largest and most respected private club culinary operations. Working alongside a second Executive Sous ...

Sunrise Senior Living

Sous Chef

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

As a Sous Chef, you support the Executive Chef in leading food production, presentation, and kitchen operations while maintaining high culinary, sanitation, and regulatory standards. What You'll Do ...

the Chef Agency

Sous Chef

Washington, VA

$75K - $85K/yr

Sous Chef Location: Central VA Salary: $75,000-$85,000 Benefits: MDV, PTO, 401(k), relocation assistance Property Description: Award-winning luxury restaurant and inn in the Blue Ridge foothills ...

Hyatt Regency Reston

Banquet Sous Chef

Reston, VA · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

The goal of the Sous Chef is to manage a specific department and work with the Executive Chef to create, implement and maintain quality standards. In some instances the Sous Chef will be expected to ...

Boar's Head Resort

Sous Chef

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

Birdwood Mansion is seeking a talented and dedicated Sous Chef to join our culinary team. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate culinary professional to contribute to a prestigious ...

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All JobsSous Chef JobsSous Chef Jobs in Virginia

Sous Chef information

See Virginia salary details

$30.2K

$58.5K

$76.8K

How much do sous chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for sous chef in Virginia is $58,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,600.00 and $66,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sous chef?

Sous chefs are second-in-command in a kitchen, working directly under the head chef or executive chef. They help oversee kitchen operations, manage other kitchen staff, and ensure that food is prepared to quality standards. Sous chefs are often responsible for supervising food preparation, managing inventory, and assisting with menu planning. Their role is critical to maintaining efficiency and consistency in a professional kitchen.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sous chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sous Chef, you need strong culinary skills, a solid understanding of kitchen operations, and typically a culinary degree or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications such as ServSafe are commonly required. Leadership, time management, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing kitchen staff and ensuring smooth service. These skills and qualifications are essential to maintain high food quality, operational efficiency, and a cohesive team in a high-pressure kitchen environment.

What are some common challenges sous chefs face when managing kitchen operations during busy service periods?

Sous Chefs often encounter challenges such as maintaining clear communication among kitchen staff, ensuring all dishes meet quality standards, and adapting quickly to unexpected changes like last-minute menu adjustments or equipment malfunctions. During peak hours, balancing speed with precision is crucial, as is supporting the Executive Chef and stepping in wherever needed. Effective delegation, problem-solving under pressure, and fostering teamwork are key skills that help Sous Chefs navigate these demanding situations successfully.

What is the difference between Sous Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectSous ChefLine Cook
Credentials Culinary training, certifications often preferred Culinary skills, on-the-job training
Work Environment Supervisory role in kitchen, responsible for kitchen operations Preparing specific dishes on the kitchen line
Employer Usage Commonly employed in restaurants, hotels, and catering Found in similar settings, working under chefs

The main difference between a Sous Chef and a Line Cook is that the Sous Chef has supervisory responsibilities and oversees kitchen operations, while the Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes on the kitchen line. The Sous Chef often has more experience and may hold certifications, whereas the Line Cook specializes in executing specific tasks. Both roles are essential in a professional kitchen, but the Sous Chef plays a leadership role in ensuring smooth kitchen functioning.

How much does a sous chef get paid an hour?

A sous chef typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Salaries can vary based on the size of the restaurant and the complexity of the menu, with some earning higher wages in upscale or high-volume venues.

Is a sous chef a good career?

A sous chef is a key leadership role in a kitchen, responsible for assisting the head chef with food preparation, staff management, and quality control. It offers opportunities for skill development, advancement to executive chef, and typically requires culinary training and experience. Career growth depends on experience, reputation, and the ability to handle high-pressure environments.
More about Sous Chef jobs

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For Sous Chef jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Sous Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sous Chef job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,492 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Sous Chef

Uptown Alley_Uphoff Ventures LLC

Midlothian, VA • On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Fun and Exciting Work Environment
  • Culture & Community - engaging team events, monthly team recognition
  • 401k, Roth IRA
  • Financial Security - competitive salary, incentive bonus structure
  • Generous Paid Time Off Policies
  • Work-Life Balance - Flexible working schedule
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Health & Wellbeing - company sponsored health and vision insurance
  • Professional Development

Role Purpose:
The role of a sous chef at Uptown Alley multifaceted and pivotal to the smooth operation of the kitchen.
 
Key Responsibilities:
  • Strategic and Financial Management
    • Menu Costing and Pricing: Sous chefs may assist in calculating the cost of ingredients for menu items and determining appropriate menu pricing to ensure profitability while remaining competitive in the market.
    • Inventory Management: They are often involved in managing inventory levels, monitoring food costs, and minimizing waste.
    • Waste Reduction Initiatives: They may implement strategies to reduce food waste and improve efficiency in the kitchen, which can lead to cost savings and improved profitability.
  • Operational Management
    • Problem Solving and Decision Making: Sous chefs are adept at troubleshooting issues that arise in the kitchen, such as equipment malfunctions, ingredient shortages, or staffing challenges. They make quick and informed decisions to address problems and minimize disruptions to service.
    • Equipment Maintenance and Safety: They are responsible for ensuring the proper maintenance and cleanliness of kitchen equipment, such as stoves, ovens, and knives. Sous chefs enforce safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries in the kitchen, including proper handling of hot surfaces, sharp tools, and hazardous materials.
    • Health and Sanitation Compliance: Sous chefs ensure that the kitchen complies with health and sanitation regulations by implementing cleaning schedules, conducting regular inspections, and training staff on food safety practices. They maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards to prevent contamination and ensure food safety.
    • Food Preparation and Quality Control: They oversee food preparation activities, ensuring that dishes are
      prepared according to recipes, quality standards, and health regulations. Sous chefs often lead by example,
      demonstrating proper cooking techniques and maintaining high standards of food quality.
  • Staff Management 
    • Training and Development: Investing in the training and development of kitchen staff can improve productivity, reduce errors, and enhance overall kitchen performance, contributing to long-term financial success. 
    • Performance Evaluation and Feedback: Sous chefs conduct performance evaluations for kitchen staff to assess their skills, productivity, and adherence to kitchen standards.
  • Customer Service
    • Overall, sous chefs play a crucial role in the operational management of the kitchen, overseeing all aspects of food preparation, staffing, safety, and efficiency to deliver a positive dining experience for customers.
Education & Qualifications:
  • Certifications in food safety and sanitation, such as ServSafe or Safe Food Handling. 
  • 2-5 years of experience working in professional kitchens, preferably in a leadership or supervisory role. 
  • Desirable -  Completing an apprenticeship or culinary training program.
  • Desirable - A degree or diploma in culinary arts, culinary management, or a related field.
Experience:
  • A lead chef should have a strong culinary background with experience working in professional kitchens.
  • Experience in supervising a team of cooks, sous chefs, and kitchen assistants is valuable. 
  • Experience implementing food safety protocols, conducting inspections, and training staff on hygiene standards is essential. 
  • Desirable - Previous experience in a high volume restaurant.
Skills & Competencies:
  • Advanced culinary skills, including proficiency in cooking techniques, food preparation methods, and recipe execution across various cuisines and menu styles
  • Kitchen Management- strong communication skills 
  • Menu costing and pricing 
  • Desirable - Basic financial analysis and budget management
  • Desirable - Familiarity with the latest culinary trends
  • Technological Proficiency
    • Intermediate skills with Microsoft office, basic payroll and HRIS platform understanding
Personal Qualities:
  • Self starter- driven and motivated work ethic, the ability to be resilient, the ability to be adaptable, empathy, ability the strategic thinker, collaborative, customer focused, results-driven. 
Languages:
  • English
  • Desirable - Spanish
Department: Culinary Operations
Location: On-Site
Travel Required: No
Type: Full-Time
Working Pattern: Monday-Friday, Weekends, Nights, Holidays
Reports To: General Manager/Head Chef
Collaborates With: Management team, Administrative support
Supports & Engages With: Junior Managers, FOH, BOH