OTOKO is hiring for a LEAD SUSHI CHEF
OTOKO is a 12-seat Japanese restaurant located at South Congress Hotel in Austin, Texas. The multi-course omakase experience at OTOKO blends Tokyo-style sushi and Kyoto-style kaiseki into a unique tasting menu, selected and prepared by our chefs based on ingredient availability and seasonality.
JOB OVERVIEW
We are currently sourcing for a full-time Lead Sushi Chef to join our team. We are a dynamic and driven culinary team with a focus on precision of execution, elegance of presentation, and a continuing journey to strive for excellence. The Lead Sushi Chef is responsible for directing the preparation, training, and execution of the kaiseki menu and reports directly to the Head Chef. The Lead Sushi Chef will lead service in tandem with the Sous Chef during the absence of the Head Chef, as well as assist in service daily. They are additionally responsible for ordering supplies, keeping accurate records, and overseeing kitchen staff alongside the Head Chef + Sous Chef. The Lead Sushi Chef will ensure all equipment and facilities are held to organizational standards. If you are seeking to join a team dedicated to daily excellence, please consider joining our culinary team.
What you'll do:
- Work closely with all South Congress Hotel, Otoko + Watertrade Management teams to understand and develop the business plan; design strategy, and set goals for growth
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Provide leadership and management support to staff while overseeing day-to-day operations
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Supervise and coordinate activities of all kitchen staff; instruct the team in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of menu items as directed by the Head Chef
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Inspect food preparation, storage, serving areas, and equipment to ensure safe, sanitary food-handling practices; ensure employees follow standards and regulations
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Order or requisition food and other supplies needed to ensure efficient operation; verify quantity and quality of received products
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Determine production schedules and staff requirements necessary to ensure timely delivery of services
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Demonstrate new cooking techniques and equipment to staff
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Assist with estimating the amount and cost of required ingredients and supplies; meet with sales representatives to negotiate prices and order supplies
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Ensure staff has a complete understanding of their job requirements and sufficient training before holding them accountable for results
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Maintain awareness of documentation needed and retained in employee files
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Oversee food preparation and presentation to ensure organizational and safety standards are met
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Follow inventory standards and procedures to consistently conduct accurate inventory
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Meet with guests to discuss menus for special events and create event menus as needed
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Record production and operational data on specified forms
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Ensure immediate response is given to guest comments and concerns and apply corrective measures when necessary
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Ensure open lines of communication with upper management at all times via email, logbooks, meetings, etc., to ensure all needs of the outlet are met
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Ensure that all equipment is maintained in good, safe working condition; arrange for equipment purchases and repairs as needed
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Maintain an increased awareness of safety issues throughout the property and keep abreast of emergency procedures and OSHA requirements
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Attend relevant meetings as directed
Who you are:
- You have a proven track record of managing teams and executing menus
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You have a solutions-oriented mindset and the confidence to make fast-paced decisions
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You believe that good hospitality is an experience, not just a transaction
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You are a leader; you're dedicated to developing with your team and creating a holistic sense of mission
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You believe in learning and personal growth; you show up as a contributor, not a spectator
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You're excellent with time management and can function effectively in a dynamic environment
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You have a strong work ethic and the ability to work autonomously and with confidence
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Knowledge of sushi preparation, Japanese/Asian ingredients + proper fish handling is a requirement
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Food Handler, Food Manager + TABC-certified
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A plus: You have 5+ years of related experience in the culinary industry
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A must: You are an entertainer who delights in creating a unique culinary experience for your guests
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A must: You like to have fun & be nice
ABOUT NEW WATERLOO
New Waterloo is an independent hospitality development + management company. We make places that create positive impact within the communities in which we live, work, play, and call home. Our brands include: South Congress Hotel, Hotel Ella, El Rey Court, La Condesa, Sway, Cafe No Se, Manana, Maie Day, Otoko, Watertrade, Il Brutto, Butler Pitch & Putt, and Albert Hotel.
New Waterloo is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.