Sushi Sous Chef
About The Position
The Sushi Sous Chef is responsible for overseeing all sushi kitchen operations, ensuring excellence in preparation, presentation, and quality of sushi and related Japanese cuisine. This role includes production planning, menu development, food and labor cost control, and enhancing the guest experience. The Sushi Sous Chef recruits, trains, and supervises sushi line staff, maintains high standards of cleanliness and safety, and collaborates with the Executive Chef to develop innovative sushi concepts and seasonal menus. Solette Seattle is a rooftop oasis atop Level South Lake Union, continuing the Solette story with a focus on creative cocktails, live music, and innovative cuisine for a community of tastemakers. Join us to bring lifestyle-driven hospitality to new heights with a dedicated, collaborative team in a vibrant, city-facing setting. Scheduled to open in of Spring 2026.
Requirements
- Passion for sushi and Japanese cuisine with a commitment to quality and guest satisfaction
- Formal culinary training or apprenticeship focused on sushi; certifications such as Food Safe and HACCP preferred
- Minimum 3 years of experience in a comparable sushi kitchen station
- Proficiency across sushi stations: fish prep, rice, nigiri, maki, garnishes, sauce prep
- Strong Japanese knife skills, knife safety, and fish handling techniques
- Knowledge of fish selection, freshness indicators, storage, and HACCP practices
- Basic business math and cost control awareness
- Computer literacy and familiarity with inventory/ordering systems
- Excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills
- Ability to perform under pressure while maintaining high presentation standards
Nice To Haves
- Creative and innovative approach to sushi concepts
- Artistic passion for the culinary profession
- Multilingual abilities
- Advanced training in sushi techniques (e.g., Omakase, seasonal specials)
- First Aid certification and basic safety training
Responsibilities
- Enforce sushi kitchen standards and procedures
- Supervise and delegate sushi line production and plating
- Lead and mentor sushi cooks and prep staff
- Foster team cohesion and professional growth
- Collaborate effectively with service staff and other departments
- Identify and implement training programs
- Maintain attention to detail, speed, and accuracy
- Ensure consistent quality and presentation
- Manage workflow to meet production schedules
- Safely transport and store seafood
- Operate and maintain sushi-specific equipment
- Refine sushi recipes and seasonal specials
- Perform duties independently while maintaining kitchen integrity
- Oversee daily sushi operations including guest flow, VIPs, and special requests
- Welcome guests to the sushi bar with a warm, polished demeanor; read guest cues to determine level of engagement
- Proactively solicit and respond to guest preferences, dietary restrictions, and omakase desires
- Gather and relay guest feedback to the sushi team in real time
- Deliver engaging, thoughtful live preparation demonstrations
- Maintain a pristine, visually appealing demonstration area
- Explain sourcing, flavor profiles, and technique succinctly to guests
- Ensure bar-plated items reflect brand standards for refinement and garnish elegance
- Maintain consistency in plate aesthetics across the sushi bar
- Adapt plating for seasonal specials or guest requests
- Set up and sustain an immaculate sushi bar station
- Conduct ongoing quality checks on fish freshness, rice texture, and presentation
- Manage bar ingredient labeling, rotation, and waste reduction
- Align with front-of-house and kitchen teams to synchronize pacing
- Provide bar-side prep and rapid plating support during peak periods
- Train bar staff and prep personnel on sushi bar standards
- Deliver ongoing coaching and micro-skills refreshers
- Enforce health, safety, and sanitation policies at the sushi bar
- Promote safe knife handling and tool maintenance
- Share concise stories about seasonal specials and sourcing
- Represent the brand voice at the bar
- Lead or assist with sushi-bar components for private events
- Collaborate with marketing or events teams on sushi-bar-focused promotions
- Maintain a polished yet approachable demeanor
- Use guests’ names when appropriate and anticipate needs
Benefits
- Generous PTO Plan
- 401(k) employer match
- Referral program
- Free Parking or Public Transportation Incentive
- Annual education allowance of up to $1,000
- Residential housing discount after 1 year of continuous employment
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
