Banquet Sous Chef

Compensation: $65,000–$70,000 + Full Benefits

Location: Chicago, IL

I’m recruiting on behalf of a well-known hospitality group in Chicago to help hire an experienced Banquet Sous Chef for a high-profile downtown hotel. This is a fantastic opportunity for a creative, organized, and guest-focused culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced events environment.

Role Overview

The Banquet Sous Chef will support all culinary operations for banquets and events, ensuring every menu is executed with precision and a high level of craftsmanship. This leader partners closely with the Executive Chef and event teams to deliver memorable culinary experiences for meetings, galas, celebrations, and large-scale functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in designing and producing banquet menus that highlight quality, seasonality, and strong presentation.
• Lead and support the banquet kitchen team, providing guidance, training, and daily oversight.
• Ensure flawless execution for events of varying sizes, maintaining consistency, timing, and exceptional service standards.
• Oversee prep, production, inventory management, and vendor coordination.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance.
• Work collaboratively with Sales, Events, and Culinary leaders to fulfill client expectations and elevate guest satisfaction.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, workflow, and culinary output.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of leadership experience in banquets, luxury hotels, upscale restaurants, or high-volume event operations.
• Strong foundation in modern culinary techniques and plating for large groups.
• Excellent communication, organization, and team-leadership abilities.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience required; food safety certification preferred.
• Bilingual English/Spanish a strong advantage.
• Must be available for weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

This position offers the chance to shape a dynamic banquet program within a respected Chicago hospitality brand. You’ll have room to grow, access to strong training resources, and the ability to influence the culinary identity of a major event destination.

Benefits Include:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with employer contributions
• Life, AD&D, and disability insurance
• FSA options
• Commuter benefits
• Pet insurance
• Hotel travel & employee discounts
• Career development opportunities