Sous Chef

Position Description: Palette 22 is where food, art, and fun come together to create an unforgettable dining experience. Our vibrant Shirlington restaurant pairs globally inspired small plates with a gallery-style atmosphere that sparks creativity at every turn.We’re looking for a hands-on, high-energy Sous Chef who thrives in a fast-paced tapas kitchen and knows how to turn fresh ingredients into bold, craveable dishes. You’ll partner with the Executive Chef to drive exceptional food, flawless execution, and a kitchen team that brings its best every shift. Position Responsibilities: Key Accountabilities include, but are not limited to:
Lead from the line — Set the pace during service and keep the kitchen focused, organized, and moving with urgency.Own execution — Ensure every tapas plate meets recipe, quality, portion, presentation, and timing standards.Attention to detail — Drive prep, station readiness, line checks, pars, and production to keep service sharp and consistent.Coach the team — Train, mentor, and develop cooks while creating a positive, accountable kitchen culture.Step up when it counts — Take charge of kitchen operations in the Executive Chef’s absence and make confident decisions under pressure.Control the costs — Support ordering, inventory, portion control, waste reduction, and food-cost targets.Protect food safety — Maintain exceptional sanitation, organization, temperature control, and food-safety standards.Collaborate across the restaurant — Communicate clearly with FOH and leadership to keep service seamless and guest-focused.Stay curious — Bring creativity, culinary knowledge, and a passion for bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and the tapas experience. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Qualifications - Includes, but is not limited to:2+ years of professional culinary experience, preferably in a high-volume, full-service restaurant.Previous Sous Chef, Lead Cook, or kitchen leadership experience strongly preferred.Proven ability to lead a team during high-volume service while maintaining quality and composure.Strong culinary fundamentals and confidence across multiple kitchen stations.Experience with scratch cooking, prep, plating, and high-volume execution.Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, proper food handling, and kitchen cleanliness.Understanding of food cost, inventory, ordering, waste control, and portion management.Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.A hands-on leadership style and willingness to jump into any station when the team needs you.Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.Ability to stand for extended periods and safely lift and move kitchen products and equipment.Must be able to speak and understand English. Additional Information: People are the core of our business. That’s why our benefits include:
Monthly profit-sharing bonusHealth insuranceVision, dental, and life insurance401KPaid time off (vacation and sick)Complimentary dining privileges at any of our ARP locationsCareer pathing and growth opportunitiesFlexible schedules $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 Annually