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Job description
Job Description Job Description Sous Chef - Full Time Element by Westin Short Pump, VA Position Summary We are seeking an experienced, dependable, and motivated Sous Chef to join the opening Food & Beverage team at the new Element by Westin in Short Pump, VA .
The Sous Chef will support the daily operation of the kitchen, assist with team leadership and training, and help ensure consistent food quality, cleanliness, food safety, and operational efficiency. This position will work closely with hotel leadership to successfully establish kitchen standards and procedures as part of the hotel's opening team.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on culinary professional who leads by example, maintains high standards, and can effectively balance food preparation, kitchen organization, team supervision, inventory control, and guest service in a fast-paced hotel environment.
Key Responsibilities Culinary Operations & Food Quality Assist with overseeing daily kitchen operations and food preparation
Prepare and supervise the preparation of menu items according to Element by Westin and Marriott brand standards
Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, portioning, and temperature control
Maintain proper preparation and service standards for breakfast, evening food service, group functions, and other hotel Food & Beverage needs
Monitor food production levels to maintain quality while minimizing waste
Assist with menu execution and implementation of culinary standards
Remain actively involved in food preparation and service during high-volume periods
Kitchen Leadership & Team Development Provide hands-on leadership and direction to cooks and other kitchen team members
Assist with training new team members on recipes, preparation methods, sanitation procedures, and brand standards
Help organize daily kitchen assignments and ensure proper shift coverage
Set expectations for professionalism, productivity, cleanliness, and teamwork
Coach team members and address performance or operational concerns with hotel leadership
Promote a positive, respectful, and team-oriented work environment
Food Safety & Kitchen Operations Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen at all times
Ensure compliance with all health department, food safety, sanitation, and company standards
Ensure all food is properly stored, labeled, dated, and rotated using FIFO procedures
Monitor refrigeration and food holding temperatures and address concerns immediately
Ensure kitchen equipment is properly operated, cleaned, and maintained
Assist with opening, closing, prep, and breakdown procedures
Help maintain readiness for health inspections and brand evaluations
Inventory, Ordering & Cost Control Assist with monitoring food, beverage, and kitchen supply levels
Support food ordering and receiving procedures
Verify deliveries for quality, quantity, and proper storage
Assist with weekly and monthly inventory counts
Monitor food waste, spoilage, portion control, and product usage
Communicate shortages, equipment concerns, and operational needs to management
Support efforts to maintain appropriate food cost and control unnecessary waste
Hotel & Department Communication Work closely with Food & Beverage leadership, Front Desk, Sales, and hotel management to coordinate operational and group needs
Review upcoming groups, events, occupancy levels, and anticipated business volumes
Communicate effectively during shift changes to ensure smooth kitchen operations
Support banquet, meeting, and special-event food preparation when needed
Assist hotel leadership with establishing strong Food & Beverage procedures during the property's opening and stabilization period
Shift Details Full-Time Position
Schedule will vary based on hotel occupancy, Food & Beverage operations, groups, and business demand
Early morning, afternoon, and evening shifts may be required
Weekend and holiday availability required
Flexibility is essential during the hotel's opening and stabilization period
Qualifications Previous professional cooking experience required
Previous Sous Chef, Lead Cook, Kitchen Supervisor, or culinary leadership experience preferred
Hotel, restaurant, banquet, or high-volume culinary experience strongly preferred
Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food preparation, sanitation, and food safety practices
ServSafe certification preferred or ability to obtain certification
Ability to lead, train, and motivate kitchen team members
Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills
Ability to remain organized and productive in a fast-paced environment
Ability to work independently while also supporting a team environment
Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs as needed
What We're Looking For Strong culinary standards and attention to detail
Hands-on leadership and a willingness to work alongside the team
Consistency, reliability, and accountability
Strong sense of urgency and ability to prioritize
Pride in cleanliness, organization, and food quality
Ability to train and develop others
Positive attitude and team-first mindset
Commitment to providing an excellent guest experience
Someone excited about helping build a successful Food & Beverage operation from the ground up
Why Join Our Team Opportunity to join the opening team of the new Element by Westin in Short Pump, VA
Opportunity to help establish the culinary culture and standards of a brand-new hotel
Full-time employment
Growth potential within Food & Beverage, culinary leadership, and hotel operations
Opportunity for continued professional development
Supportive leadership team focused on operational excellence, team development, and long-term success
Opportunity to grow within a hospitality organization with multiple hotel properties
Worksite address
glen allen, VA, 23059, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.