Chef

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