Job Details

Job Title: Junior Sous Chef
Reports To: Executive Chef, Sous Chef, Chef de Cuisine
Coordinates With: Kitchen Staff, Front-of-House Team, Banquet Team, Food & Beverage Management
Position Type: Full-time; Exempt

About Us:

At The Virginian Golf Club & Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, we believe in more than just beautiful views and top-tier amenities - we believe in creating experiences that linger. Located across 1,500+ acres in Virginia's highlands, our private community blends championship golf, elegant lodging, curated cuisine, and award-winning wine into one destination you'll never forget.

From Tom Fazio's pristinely sculpted golf course, to our boutique Inn and luxury yurts, to Hickory - our fine dining restaurant led by a James Beard-nominated chef - everything we do is rooted in hospitality, nature, craftsmanship, and joy. We are growing, innovating, and deeply committed to quality in every service and encounter.

Join us, help us craft memorable moments, and be part of a team that blends country elegance with genuine warmth.

Position Overview

The Junior Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Sous Chef in leading daily kitchen operations at Hickory. This role assists with food preparation, staff supervision, and menu development while ensuring quality, consistency, and compliance with safety standards. The Junior Sous Chef serves as a mentor to junior kitchen staff and helps maintain the high culinary standards that define Hickory's fine dining experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Sous Chef in supervising daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and service execution.
• Lead by example during service, ensuring consistency, quality, and timeliness of all menu items.
• Train, mentor, and support culinary staff, promoting skill development, teamwork, and adherence to kitchen standards.
• Collaborate on menu planning, recipe development, and specials creation, emphasizing seasonality and innovation.
• Maintain quality control by tasting dishes, verifying presentation standards, and adjusting as needed to ensure excellence.
• Support inventory management through ordering, stock rotation, and minimizing waste to maintain cost efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with health, sanitation, and safety regulations, including proper food handling and storage procedures.
• Oversee proper use and maintenance of kitchen tools, equipment, and workstations to ensure functionality and safety.
• Communicate effectively with the front-of-house team to coordinate timing, service needs, and guest accommodations.
• Step into leadership duties during the absence of the Sous Chef or Chef de Cuisine to maintain smooth kitchen operations.
• Contribute to a positive, respectful, and professional kitchen culture consistent with Hickory's fine dining standards.

Qualifications

Required:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent; culinary degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 1 year in a kitchen leadership role, preferably in a fine dining or high-volume environment.
• Proficiency in cooking techniques, plating, and food safety; strong communication and organizational skills.

Preferred:

• Experience in Appalachian, farm-to-table, or seasonal cuisine.
• Background in luxury hospitality or fine dining operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Strong foundation in culinary techniques and food presentation.
• Leadership potential with ability to motivate and mentor team members.
• Knowledge of health, sanitation, and food safety standards.
• Excellent time management and multitasking abilities in a high-pressure kitchen environment.
• Creativity in menu development and passion for culinary innovation.

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

• Fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment with exposure to heat, steam, and sharp tools.
• Requires standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 lbs, bending, and repetitive motions.
• Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts required.

Benefits of Joining Our Team

At The Virginian Golf Club, Nicewonder Inn, and Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, we believe our employees are the heart of our success. We're proud to offer a supportive, rewarding workplace with benefits designed to help you thrive both personally and professionally.

Our benefits include:

• Competitive Pay - Fair wages with opportunities for growth.
• Health & Wellness - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus company-provided life insurance at no cost to you.
• Retirement Planning - 401(k) plan with company contribution.
• Paid Time Off - Vacation, holidays, and sick time to support work-life balance.
• Team Member Discounts - Special pricing on lodging, dining, and vineyard experiences.
• Beautiful Work Environment - A scenic setting across 1,500+ acres of rolling hills, vineyards, and golf greens.
• Career Growth - Training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities across hospitality, golf, and agricultural operations.
• Positive Culture - Be part of a professional team that values respect, collaboration, and excellence in service.

EEO Statement

The Virginian Golf Club L.C. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.