<p>Job Overview:</p> <p>We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Sous Chef to join our culinary team. This dynamic role is ideal for a seasoned professional with expertise in both restaurant and banquet services, a passion for creating exceptional culinary experiences, and a strong ability to manage and lead a team in a fast-paced, high-energy environment.</p> <p>The Sous Chef will work directly under the Executive Chef to maintain the highest quality of food, presentation, and service while fostering a collaborative and positive work atmosphere.</p> <p>About Our Company:</p> <p>Ponte Family Estate Winery has been a cornerstone of Temecula Wine Country since 2003. With vineyards dating back to 1984, we are a true working winery, producing over 20 estate-grown varietals within our certified sustainable facilities. Our restaurant pairs exceptional food with Ponte wines, offering guests a one-of-a-kind dining experience surrounded by breathtaking vineyard views.</p> <p>The Restaurant at Ponte has been a destination dining location in Temecula Wine Country since opening in 2003. The outdoor Restaurant at Ponte has stunning vineyard and garden views and is open year-round for guests and Wine Club Members focusing on seasonal cuisine, and exceptional service. Our menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients with a focus on local and sustainable sourcing.</p> <p>Our Event's Department generates weekly banquet and special events which are designed, prepped and executed out of our onsite catering kitchen.</p> <p>The Ideal Candidate:</p> <p>The ideal candidate will have a passion for hospitality, a strong background in managing a high-end dining establishment, and the ability to lead a team in delivering outstanding lunch and dinner services. This is a hands-on leadership position requiring a blend of operational management, customer service excellence, and team development.</p> <p>If you are a creative and driven culinary leader with the experience and passion for working in a high-end, outdoor dining environment, we invite you to apply and become part of our exceptional team in Temecula Wine Country.</p> <p>Compensation:</p> <ul> <li>$82,000+ annually DOE </li><li>Discretionary bonus based on KPI expectations </li></ul> <p>Schedule:</p> <ul> <li>Nights, Weekends, and Holidays required. </li><li>Schedule subject to change, variable based on business needs. </li><li>The Restaurant is open Wednesday-Sunday. </li><li>Banquets are delivered daily. </li></ul> <p>Key Responsibilities:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Leadership & Team Management:</p> </li><li> <p>Oversee and manage kitchen staff, including line cooks, prep cooks, and kitchen assistants.</p> </li><li> <p>Train and mentor team members in culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety protocols.</p> </li><li> <p>Ensure efficient daily operations, ensuring staff adhere to all recipes, portion controls, and presentation standards.</p> </li><li> <p>Collaborate with the Executive Chef to create a positive, creative, and motivated work environment.</p> </li><li> <p>Menu Planning & Development:</p> </li><li> <p>Assist the Executive Chef with the development of seasonal menus, incorporating local and regional ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes.</p> </li><li> <p>Ensure menu items are executed consistently and according to the restaurant's high standards.</p> </li><li> <p>Implement new recipes and suggest improvements based on customer feedback and current culinary trends.</p> </li><li> <p>Banquet and Event Coordination:</p> </li><li> <p>Lead the kitchen team in preparation for private events, banquets, and special functions, ensuring timely and flawless execution.</p> </li><li> <p>Work closely with event planners and the front-of-house team to accommodate menu requirements and specific guest requests.</p> </li><li> <p>Coordinate kitchen operations to ensure smooth and efficient service for large groups while maintaining food quality and presentation.</p> </li><li> <p>Quality Control & Food Safety:</p> </li><li> <p>Maintain the highest standards of food quality, taste, and presentation at all times.</p> </li><li> <p>Ensure strict adherence to all food safety and sanitation guidelines, including proper storage, handling, and preparation of ingredients.</p> </li><li> <p>Conduct regular checks of inventory and stock to minimize waste and ensure kitchen supplies are adequately maintained.</p> </li><li> <p>Collaboration & Communication:</p> </li><li> <p>Work in close collaboration with the Executive Chef and management team to ensure smooth communication between the kitchen and front-of-house.</p> </li><li> <p>Assist in managing kitchen labor and food costs to ensure profitability without compromising quality.</p> </li><li> <p>Assist with the recruitment, onboarding, and evaluation of kitchen staff.</p> </li></ul> <p>Qualifications:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Experience:</p> </li><li> <p>Minimum of 5+ years of professional cooking experience in high-end restaurants, with at least 2 years in a sous chef role, preferably in outdoor or resort-style environments.</p> </li><li> <p>Extensive experience in banquet or event-based catering is a must.</p> </li><li> <p>Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire kitchen staff, ensuring consistent quality and high morale.</p> </li><li> <p>Skills & Expertise:</p> </li><li> <p>Strong culinary knowledge with expertise in modern cooking techniques, food trends, and classic cuisine.</p> </li><li> <p>Proficient in menu development, inventory control, and cost management.</p> </li><li> <p>Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.</p> </li><li> <p>Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.</p> </li><li> <p>Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to delivering exceptional culinary experiences.</p> </li><li> <p>Education & Certification:</p> </li><li> <p>Culinary Arts Degree or equivalent is preferred.</p> </li><li> <p>ServSafe or equivalent food safety certification is required.</p> </li><li> <p>A passion for wine and local cuisine is a plus, given the location in Southern California's wine country.</p> </li></ul> <p>Company Standards:</p> <ul> <li>Understand, teach and follow the PONTE Values and Service Standards. </li><li>Ensure the safety of guests and associates at all times. </li><li>Follow the environmental sustainability standards set by the company. </li><li>Treat all associates and guests with professionalism and respect. </li><li>Exhibit integrity (honesty and truthfulness) in all aspects of work. </li><li>Perform any other duties as required by your Manager. </li></ul> <p>Perks:</p> <ul> <li>Opportunities for growth and advancement within the company. </li><li>Wine Shipments per the Club Membership Program. </li><li>Live Leadership Program Classes. </li><li>Online Leadership Courses. </li><li>Opportunity to work in one of the most scenic and sought-after locations in Southern California. </li><li>Company Sponsored Family Picnic and Holiday Party. </li></ul> <p>Benefits Per Company Plan Details:</p> <ul> <li>Medical, Dental, Vision </li><li>401k Matching Plan </li><li>Life Insurance </li><li>Hospital Confinement Plan </li><li>Pet Insurance </li><li>3 Weeks of PTO </li><li>2 paid Holidays (Thanksgiving + Christmas) + 6 Floating Holidays </li><li>Ponte Wine Club Shipments </li><li>Employee Meal Program </li><li>The terms and conditions associated with each Benefit are outlined in the Associate Handbook, additional documentation provided by Human Resources, or within the policies of the carriers providing the benefits* </li></ul>