Join a small, quality-focused kitchen as a Sous Chef for a 7-month contract, supporting lunch service Wed-Sun and covering for the Head Chef in Nov.

Sous Chef - 7-Month Contract

We're looking for a motivated and skilled Sous Chef to join a small, passionate kitchen team. The role is set in a stunning Central Otago vineyard location, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and a relaxed, inspiring environment. The venue is known for its elegant, intimate dining experiences, offering a close-knit team the chance to work in a beautifully maintained, high-quality kitchen. This is a rare opportunity to combine hands-on culinary work with the energy of a picturesque, award-winning setting.

The Role:

• Support the head chef in running the kitchen during lunch service (Wednesday-Sunday)
• Daytime hours Wednesday to Sunday between 8 am and 5pm occasionally late.
• Handle small, focused lunch service with sharing style menu. 
• Work closely with a team of 3 (including a chef, sous, and kitchen hand)
• Take ownership of quality, consistency, and smooth service, especially during peak times
• Ad-hoc events may arise; flexibility to assist when needed
• Fill in for the head chef for a couple of weeks at the end of November

Requirements:

• Proven experience as a sous chef or similar kitchen leadership role
• Ability to operate in a small, high-quality, detail-focused kitchen
• Strong prep, timing, and team coordination skills
• Passion for delivering excellent food for small groups
• Availability to start asap or within 2 -4 weeks

Details:

• Contract: 7 months
• Days: Wednesday-Sunday
• Hours: Daytime; prep before service
• Rate: $34-$38 per hour depending on experience

This is a fantastic opportunity for a candidate who thrives in a hands-on role and wants to step up in a small, quality-driven kitchen environment.

JOB REFERENCE #3971533