Sous Chef - Lalla Grill Oceanside

Moncada Group • Monterey, CA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

Lalla Grill is seeking a reliable and experienced Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in managing a busy, high-volume kitchen. This hands-on leadership role is perfect for someone with strong cooking skills, solid kitchen experience, and the ability to thrive under pressure. The ideal candidate is a hands-on kitchen leader with a passion for food, teamwork, and high standards, who thrives in fast-paced environments, communicates clearly under pressure, and leads by example. They enjoy mentoring team members, solving problems in real time, and ensuring consistent quality and service from prep to plate.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of professional kitchen experience.
• Prior experience as a cook or sous chef in a high-volume restaurant.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Must be fluent in Spanish.
• Excellent cooking, time management, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks at once.
• Food Manager Certification must be completed shortly after hiring.

Nice To Haves

• Formal culinary training is preferred.
• English proficiency preferred.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Head Chef to lead kitchen operations.
• Direct and assist with food prep and execution during service.
• Monitor food quality, consistency, and presentation.
• Learn and step into any kitchen station as needed.
• Ensure food safety and cleanliness standards are consistently followed.
• Keep stations clean and maintain kitchen equipment.
• Supervise and support kitchen staff during service.
• Communicate clearly with FOH on orders, dietary needs, and timing.
• Coordinate with managers for large parties, takeout, and catering orders.
• Help train and mentor new cooks on techniques, recipes, and procedures.
• Support a respectful and team-oriented kitchen culture.
• Assist with ordering from Sysco and other vendors.
• Manage inventory and minimize food waste.
• Receive deliveries and communicate with delivery drivers.
• Stay calm under pressure and help the team stay focused during peak times.
• Offer creative ideas and improvements for kitchen operations.
• Lead by example in maintaining high kitchen standards.

Benefits

• 2 weeks' paid vacation.
• 50% employee meal discount.
• Shift meals and drinks provided.
• Opportunity for growth at Lalla Grill or sister restaurants.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED