Senior Sous Chef

Wellington, Wellington Region, nz on site Until 9/5/2026 4+ years exp H-1B sponsor history First posted July 7, 2026 Last posted July 7, 2026
Job description

Immerse yourself in the world of Sofitel Wellington, where French elegance meets New Zealand hospitality in our intimate 129-room luxury sanctuary nestled in the vibrant capital city of New Zealand. Sofitel embraces this spirited atmosphere and rests harmoniously within the shadow of the Botanic Gardens and the Wellington coastline. Every detail, from bespoke furnishings to personalized touches, reflects our La Maison commitment to creating transformative experiences that linger in the memory long after departure. Enjoy modern luxury with authentic and lively experinces. 

Sofitel Wellington invites you to elevate your career as a Senior Sous Chef, where luxury meets impeccable service.

As a Full-time Senior Sous Chef, you play a key role in ensuring the consistency, quality, and excellence of our kitchen operations. You will be responsible for assisting the Executive Chef with operation of the Kitchen; and leading your team with professionalism and pride.

Sofitel Wellington, Where Life Lives.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Deliver consistent, high-quality, luxury-standard cuisine that exceeds guest expectations.
  • Support innovative menu development in partnership with our Executive Chef.
  • Ensure stock levels are maintained and kitchen operations run smoothly during service.
  • Uphold exemplary hygiene, food safety, and presentation standards at all times.
  • Train new team members and apprentices in kitchen techniques and menu execution.
  • Maintain cost control through portion management, stock rotation, and waste minimisation.
  • Collaborate closely with the Restaurant Manager and Front of House team to ensure seamless service.
  • Support payroll monitoring and recruitment activities alongside management.
  • Coordinate with the stewarding team to ensure efficient support for kitchen operations.
  • Perform additional tasks as required to support the culinary vision and operational excellence.

This role is Full-Time (40 hours per week) - Must hold full NZ working rights. 

  • Minimum 4 years experience in a similar role, preferably including 5 star experience.
  • At least 2 years in a leadership role in a 5 star luxury hotel or similar
  • Holds a Diploma Certificate or higher in Cookery or International Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • An understanding of luxury guest expectations and desire to meet these expectations.
  • Attention to detail
  • Good understanding of Microsoft Office
  • Projects professional image at all times through personal presentation/ interpersonal skills.
  • Maintains awareness of industry trends in service, product and presentation.
  • Initiates contacts and establishes rapport easily.
  • Organises time and work efficiently.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, English essential
  • Hours worked according to the demands of the business (Hospitality operates 24/7)

Benefits:

  • Free staff meal provided during shift
  • Family & Friends Hotel Discounts ongoing reward and recognition incentives and awards
  • Annual reward of a free night's accommodation at the hotel (did we say there is breakfast and dinner included?)
  • Learn Your Way - Support your career development with access to Accor’s training platforms!
  • Work Your Way - Flexibility to ensure a work life balance!
  • Incredible Accor Heartist Benefits - Including discounted Food & Beverage + Accommodation Worldwide!
  • Accor's Refer-a-Friend bonus
  • Accor paid parental leave

We are an inclusive company, and our ambition is to attract, recruit and promote diverse talent. We offer reasonable adjustments to support you. If you require an adjustment to be made during the recruitment process, you're welcome to let us know.

About this role

Summary

Lead kitchen operations, support menu development, ensure quality, hygiene, and team training.

Job title

Senior Sous Chef

Experience level

4+ years

Minimum experience

4+ years exp

Industry

hospitality

Location requirements

Wellington, NZ; full-time, on-site; must have NZ work rights

Salary

Not specified

Visa sponsorship

H-1B sponsor history

Management role

Yes

Skills & keywords

Required skills

food safetymenu developmentteam leadershipcooking techniquesHACCP

Preferred skills

luxury hospitalitytraining and developmentMicrosoft Office

Specializations

culinary artsluxury hospitality
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Wellington, New Zealand

On-site City