Benefits:- Employee discounts
- Opportunity for advancement
- Training & development
Department: Back of House (BOH)
Reports To: Sushi Chef > Executive Chef
Location: KUZA Scottsdale (Tatum & Cactus)
Pay Rate: $17/hour
Job SummaryThe Sushi Apprentice supports KUZA’s Japanese-American culinary program by learning all the basics of fish handling, and working your way up to executing high-quality sushi, sashimi, rolls, and cold-kitchen dishes with precision, speed, and consistency. This role requires basic knife skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining KUZA’s standards for freshness, presentation, and flavor.
Key Responsibilities- Learn how to safely handle, clean and cut seafood, then moving up to learning sushi, sashimi, nigiri, maki rolls, poke, and cold-kitchen menu items according to KUZA recipes and specs.
- Maintain accurate knife skills and learn all the skills for sushi rice handling, seasoning, and storage.
- Learn and Ensure all fish, produce, and ingredients are labeled, dated, rotated, and stored properly.
- Maintain workstation cleanliness, including cutting boards, knives, containers, and refrigeration areas.
- Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures, especially temperature control for raw seafood.
- Assist with daily prep, including slicing fish, portioning ingredients, making sauces, and preparing garnishes.
- Communicate with the Sushi Chef and line team regarding low product levels, quality concerns, or 86’d items.
- Support service through fast, accurate execution during high-volume periods.
Skills & Qualifications- 1+ year experience in a food service establishment.
- Good knife skills
- Willingness to be a sponge and learn proper seafood safety, cross-contamination prevention, and temperature control.
- Ability to follow recipes and plating guides with consistency.
- Must have (or obtain) AZ Food Handler Card.
- Able to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for long periods in a high-paced environment.
Work Environment & Expectations- Professional appearance aligned with KUZA kitchen and grooming standards.
- Punctuality, reliability, and calm focus during busy service periods.
- Willingness to learn KUZA’s Japanese-American fusion style and flavor profiles.
- Positive attitude and strong teamwork ethic.