Events Sous Chef - River Roast

Compass Group•Chicago, IL

7d•Onsite

About The Position

River Roast is seeking a highly organized, energetic, and service-driven Events Sous Chef to support our growing private dining and events business along the Chicago River. As part of Levy - an award-winning and nationally recognized leader in hospitality and culinary experiences - River Roast delivers elevated food, exceptional service, and dynamic events in one of Chicago’s premier riverfront destinations. This role is ideal for a culinary leader who thrives in high-volume event execution, understands banquet operations, and can lead teams through seamless event production while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, organization, and culinary excellence.

Requirements

3–5+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience in restaurants, hotels, banquet facilities, or high-volume event operations
Strong banquet and events experience required
Proven ability to execute multiple events simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
Experience with plated dinners, buffet execution, cocktail receptions, and large-format production
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
Ability to lead teams calmly and effectively under pressure
Knowledge of food costing, inventory systems, prep management, and kitchen operations
Passion for hospitality, teamwork, and guest experience
ServSafe Certification preferred
Culinary degree preferred but not required
Availability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and event-driven schedules

Nice To Haves

Organized and proactive
Calm under pressure
Passionate about hospitality and guest experience
Detail-oriented with strong event execution instincts
A strong communicator and team leader
Excited to grow within a dynamic Chicago hospitality group

Responsibilities

Lead culinary execution for private events, banquets, receptions, buffet service, plated dinners, cocktail events, and large-scale activations
Oversee event prep, production timelines, staffing, and service coordination for multiple simultaneous events
Collaborate with the Events and Sales teams to ensure menu accuracy, dietary accommodations, event flow, and guest expectations are executed flawlessly
Assist in planning and developing seasonal banquet and event menus that align with River Roast’s culinary identity and operational capabilities
Maintain consistency in food quality, presentation, and execution during high-volume service periods
Supervise, coach, and develop hourly culinary team members while fostering a positive and accountable kitchen culture
Assist with ordering, inventory management, food costing, and labor management to support operational and financial goals
Ensure all food safety, sanitation, and DOH standards are upheld at all times
Support restaurant service operations as needed while balancing event production priorities
Help drive innovation, organization, and operational efficiency within the culinary department