Job Description

The Sous Chef is responsible for assisting the Executive Chef in leading all culinary operations for Sundrop Restaurant and Banquets. This role oversees kitchen execution, food quality, team development, sanitation compliance, inventory management, and daily operations while ensuring consistency and excellence across all meal periods and banquet functions.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who thrives in a high-volume, upscale hospitality environment and is passionate about developing culinary talent while maintaining exceptional food standards.

Essential Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in managing daily kitchen operations for Sundrop Restaurant and banquet events
• Lead and supervise culinary team members during service and food preparation
• Ensure all menu items are prepared according to recipe, quality, and presentation standards
• Maintain consistency and execution during breakfast, brunch, dinner, and banquet services
• Assist with menu development, recipe creation, and seasonal offerings
• Monitor food quality, portion control, and waste management
• Support scheduling, training, coaching, and development of culinary team members
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations
• Assist with inventory management, ordering, receiving, and product rotation
• Control food costs while maintaining quality and guest satisfaction standards
• Collaborate with restaurant, banquet, and hotel leadership teams to ensure seamless operations
• Participate in hiring, performance management, and team engagement initiatives

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of culinary leadership experience in a hotel, resort, upscale restaurant, or high-volume dining environment
• Previous Sous Chef experience preferred
• Banquet and catering experience strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of food preparation techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety standards
• Proven ability to lead and motivate culinary teams
• Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Culinary degree preferred but not required
• ServSafe Certification or ability to obtain certification required

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Why Join The Luce Hotel?

At The Luce Hotel, we believe in creating unforgettable experiences through exceptional hospitality, outstanding cuisine, and genuine service. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the culinary identity of one of St. Pete Beach's newest luxury lifestyle destinations.

Benefits Include:

• Competitive salary and bonus opportunities
• Marriott travel discounts worldwide
• Crescent Hotels & Resorts associate benefits
• Career growth and advancement opportunities
• Dynamic luxury resort environment
• Opportunity to work with a talented culinary and hospitality team

Join us and help create exceptional dining experiences for our guests while contributing to the success of Sundrop Restaurant and The Luce Hotel.