Sous Chef for high end Japanese restaurant, Rio Izakaya, Westshore, Tampa

Location:

5232 Bridge Street, Tampa 33611

Schedule:

Dinner service (approx. 4:00 PM-11:00 PM). Closed Mondays. We are hiring Sous Chefs to support our Executive Chef and leadership team in opening and running a high end, detail-driven Japanese kitchen.

This role is hands-on:

you will be on the line, coaching the team, protecting quality, and helping build systems that scale.

Minimum requirement:

2+ years of Sous Chef experience (or equivalent leadership role) in a high-demand kitchen. Key Responsibilities Support Executive Chef with daily kitchen operations, prep execution, and service leadership Maintain high standards in product quality, consistency, timing, and plating/presentation Supervise and coordinate BOH staff during shifts; lead by example on the line Help implement and maintain systems for: Station setup, prep lists, pars, and line checks Inventory management, ordering, receiving, and waste control Cleanliness, organization, and food safety (DOH compliance) Train, mentor, and develop cooks (technique, speed, discipline, standards) Assist with menu execution, tastings, specials, and seasonal updates Collaborate with FOH to ensure smooth service flow and accurate menu knowledge Support opening execution: kitchen setup, recipes, prep standards, labeling, SOPs What We're Looking For 2+ years experience as a Sous Chef in a busy, quality-focused kitchen Japanese cuisine foundation strongly preferred (sushi/sashimi/nigiri experience a plus) Experience with high-end execution and attention to detail (knife work, proteins, rice, sauces, timing) Comfortable supporting a menu that includes: Yakitori / binchotan grilling Dry-aged fish handling Sushi, sashimi, nigiri, and refined hot & cold plates Strong leadership: calm under pressure, communicates clearly, holds standards without drama Organized, reliable, and proactive. Sees problems early and fixes them Tech-friendly with modern restaurant tools (inventory, ordering, scheduling, checklists) Must speak/read/write English competently (additional languages a plus) Culture Fit We run a supportive, professional kitchen. We do not tolerate bullying, arrogance, elitism, or disrespect. We want leaders who build people up while running a tight operation.

Compensation & Benefits Pay:

Competitive, based on experience (discussed during interview) Benefits may include: Health insurance Performance bonus Paid time off Staff meals Referral program Growth opportunity with a brand built for future expansion About Rio Izakaya Rio Izakaya is a brand new, high-end Japanese casual elegant restaurant preparing to open in Tampa. Our menu is centered on Yakitori grilled over Japanese binchotan , dry-aged fish for sushi / sashimi / nigiri , and a focused selection of hot and cold plates executed with precision. We are building a kitchen culture that is organized, disciplined, and kind—no ego, no bullying, no kitchen snobbery. We're looking for professionals who take pride in craft, team development, and consistency. Apply via indeed for immediate interviews.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$70,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Health insurance Referral program Application Question(s): Do you currently reside in or near Tampa?

Experience:

Sous Chef:

2 years (Required) Japanese cuisine: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person