Executive Sous Chef

Location: In-House Prep Kitchen & Off-Site Events Schedule: Full-Time Primarily mornings, with some afternoons, nights, and weekends Reports To: Executive Chef Purple Onion Catering is seeking an Executive Sous Chef to join our senior culinary leadership team.

This is a hands-on, accountability-driven role focused on food quality, team development, training, and execution of high-end catered events.

The Executive Sous Chef acts as a culture carrier and leader on the floor, supporting the Executive Chef and stepping in fully when needed.

This position is ideal for a self-starter who takes ownership, seeks answers independently, trains with intention, and leads calmly under pressure.

Key ResponsibilitiesLead, mentor, and train the culinary team with a strong focus on accountability and standardsBe hands-on during prep days: tasting food, correcting seasoning, and coaching techniqueMaintain consistency, quality, and execution across prep and eventsAct as Executive Chef in their absence, including leadership, decision-making, and communicationOversee event execution from prep through departure, ensuring accuracy and on-time readinessPromote a respectful, professional, team-oriented kitchen cultureEnsure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health department standardsIdentify efficiencies, reduce waste, and support cost-conscious decision-making Qualifications4+ years in a professional kitchen2+ years in catering, events, or banquet-style productionProven experience training, leading, and holding teams accountableStrong communication and organizational skillsAbility to work early mornings, nights, weekends, and off-site eventsReliable transportation; valid driver’s license preferredAbility to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periodsBilingual a plus, not required Compensation & BenefitsSalary starting at $70,000+ (DOE) plus bonusPTO, sick pay, and six paid holidaysStaff meals on shifts over 8 hoursLeadership development and growth opportunities Required One-Page Written Prompt (Choose ONE) Along with your resume and references, submit one page responding to one of the following prompts.

Be specific and honest.

We are looking for insight into how you approach leadership, accountability, training, and culture.

Prompt Option 1 – Accountability Under Pressure Describe a time when a team member or group consistently failed to meet standards.

How did you address the issue, what actions did you take to correct it, and what was the outcome?

What did you learn about accountability as a leader?

Prompt Option 2 – Motivating with Intention & Culture Tell us about a time when morale, engagement, or performance was lacking on a team you led.

How did you motivate the team and lead with intention?

What does kitchen culture mean to you, and how did your actions shape or improve it?

Prompt Option 3 – Leading in Absence of Authority Share an example of when you had to step into a leadership role unexpectedly or without formal authority.

How did you earn trust, make decisions, and ensure standards were upheld?

How to Apply: Please email the following to :ResumeOne-page written response (choose one prompt above)Three professional references Only complete applications will be considered.

Job Type: Full-time Pay: $70,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year Benefits:401(k) matchingDental insuranceFood providedHealth insurancePaid time offRelocation assistanceVision insurance Work Location: In person