Sous Chef

Do you want to join a fun, vibrant team working in the luxury 4* Brehon Hotel in beautiful Killarney?

The Brehon Hotel Killarney is currently recruiting for the role of Sous Chef for a permanent, full-time position. The successful candidate will manage the day to day operation of the pastry section, and prepare and deliver high quality desserts to exceed guest expectations. This is an excellent opportunity for the relevant candidate to expand and progress their career.

Sous Chef Job Description

The Sous Chef is responsible for supporting the Executive Chef in the leadership and day-to-day operation of the kitchen with a big focus on the Pastry department. The successful candidate will oversee pastry production, maintain exceptional quality standards, supervise the pastry team, and contribute to menu development while ensuring full compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily pastry production and ensure quality standards are met.
• Assist the Executive Chef in menu planning and development of new pastry offerings.
• Supervise, train and mentor pastry chefs and kitchen staff, ensuring recipes, preparation methods and presentation standards are consistently followed.
• Maintain hygiene and cleanliness in the pastry section, complying with food safety regulations.
• Manage inventory, including ordering and monitoring stock levels of ingredients.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to ensure timely and efficient service.
• Decorate and present pastries and desserts to meet aesthetic standards.
• Monitor and control food costs and minimize waste in the pastry section.
• Develop and introduce innovative seasonal desserts and pastry offerings in line with the hotel's standards and guest expectations.
• Maintain strict compliance with HACCP procedures, food safety legislation and all health and hygiene standards.
• Lead the team in the absence of the Executive Chef

Essential Skills and Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef in a hotel or professional kitchen for a minimum of 4 years in a 4 star or higher environment.
• Strong knowledge of pastry preparation, baking techniques, and dessert presentation. Minimum 2 years as a Pastry chef in a 4 stars or higher environment
• Understanding of food safety standards and regulations.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks.
• Extensive knowledge of pastry production, baking techniques, chocolate work, desserts and artisan breads.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced hospitality environment.

Additional Attributes

• Creativity in developing new recipes and dessert concepts.
• Attention to detail in both production and presentation.
• Leadership skills to motivate and guide the pastry team.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing demands and schedules.


• Assist in modernising and updating the pastry menu while maintaining brand standards and seasonal variety
• Translate menu updates into daily production plans, ensuring tasks are delivered on time and to specification
• Coordinate daily pastry workflow and delegate tasks to pastry team members to meet service requirements
• Monitor execution of recipes/portioning and ensure consistent quality during service

Managing and Conducting Human Resource Activities

Identifies the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.

Improves service by communicating and assisting individuals to understand guest needs, providing guidance, feedback, and individual coaching when needed.

Participates in the employee performance appraisal process, providing feedback as needed.

Brings issues to the attention of the department manager and Human Resources as necessary.

Additional Responsibilities

Provides information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Analyzes information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Attends and participates in all pertinent meetings.

Reasons to apply:

• A Welcoming & Supportive Team Environment
• Opportunities for Professional Development & Growth
• Meals Provided on Duty
• Employee of the Month Awards
• Company Events
• Friends & Family Rates
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Free Parking
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Rewards for Years of Service
• Flexible Schedule

We look forward to hearing from you!