Hotel Chef - Element Marriott Short Pump

Job Description

Sous Chef – Full TimeElement by Westin | Short Pump, VAPosition Summary

We are seeking an experienced, dependable, and motivated Sous Chef to join the opening Food & Beverage team at the new Element by Westin in Short Pump, VA.

The Sous Chef will support the daily operation of the kitchen, assist with team leadership and training, and help ensure consistent food quality, cleanliness, food safety, and operational efficiency. This position will work closely with hotel leadership to successfully establish kitchen standards and procedures as part of the hotel's opening team.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on culinary professional who leads by example, maintains high standards, and can effectively balance food preparation, kitchen organization, team supervision, inventory control, and guest service in a fast-paced hotel environment.

• Assist with overseeing daily kitchen operations and food preparation
• Prepare and supervise the preparation of menu items according to Element by Westin and Marriott brand standards
• Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, portioning, and temperature control
• Maintain proper preparation and service standards for breakfast, evening food service, group functions, and other hotel Food & Beverage needs
• Monitor food production levels to maintain quality while minimizing waste
• Assist with menu execution and implementation of culinary standards
• Remain actively involved in food preparation and service during high-volume periods

• Provide hands-on leadership and direction to cooks and other kitchen team members
• Assist with training new team members on recipes, preparation methods, sanitation procedures, and brand standards
• Help organize daily kitchen assignments and ensure proper shift coverage
• Set expectations for professionalism, productivity, cleanliness, and teamwork
• Coach team members and address performance or operational concerns with hotel leadership
• Promote a positive, respectful, and team-oriented work environment

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen at all times
• Ensure compliance with all health department, food safety, sanitation, and company standards
• Ensure all food is properly stored, labeled, dated, and rotated using FIFO procedures
• Monitor refrigeration and food holding temperatures and address concerns immediately
• Ensure kitchen equipment is properly operated, cleaned, and maintained
• Assist with opening, closing, prep, and breakdown procedures
• Help maintain readiness for health inspections and brand evaluations

• Assist with monitoring food, beverage, and kitchen supply levels
• Support food ordering and receiving procedures
• Verify deliveries for quality, quantity, and proper storage
• Assist with weekly and monthly inventory counts
• Monitor food waste, spoilage, portion control, and product usage
• Communicate shortages, equipment concerns, and operational needs to management
• Support efforts to maintain appropriate food cost and control unnecessary waste

• Work closely with Food & Beverage leadership, Front Desk, Sales, and hotel management to coordinate operational and group needs
• Review upcoming groups, events, occupancy levels, and anticipated business volumes
• Communicate effectively during shift changes to ensure smooth kitchen operations
• Support banquet, meeting, and special-event food preparation when needed
• Assist hotel leadership with establishing strong Food & Beverage procedures during the property's opening and stabilization period

• Full-Time Position
• Schedule will vary based on hotel occupancy, Food & Beverage operations, groups, and…