Position Overview
The Senior Sous Chef at Dunmore House Hotel will work directly with Manuel, the Executive Head Chef, whilst taking on specific leadership responsibilities to develop towards a future Head Chef role. This position combines traditional Sous Chef duties with structured exposure to higher-level kitchen management, offering a unique development opportunity for an ambitious culinary professional.
Ideal Candidate Profile
We are seeking an ambitious, internationally-minded culinary professional who thrives in diverse, high-energy kitchen environments. This role offers a rare opportunity to develop your career in a unique Irish setting that combines Michelin Guide recognition with real-world versatility.
Why This Opportunity Is Perfect For You
- Michelin Guide Experience: Gain valuable experience working in a Michelin-listed establishment, learning refined techniques and elevated culinary standards that will distinguish your career globally.
- Diverse Culinary Challenges: Master multiple culinary disciplines in one role – from intimate fine dining to large-scale banqueting (weddings and galas for up to 250 guests) and relaxed bar food service. This breadth of experience is invaluable for future Head Chef roles.
- Innovation & Creativity: Work with fresh, locally-grown produce from our permaculture kitchen gardens, exploring innovative dishes that blend international influences with Irish ingredients. Your Asian culinary perspective will be particularly valued in menu development.
- Cultural Exchange: Join an international kitchen team in Ireland, bringing your unique culinary heritage whilst learning European techniques and Irish hospitality traditions.
- Winter Break Advantage: The 8-week paid closure period (January & February) is ideal for overseas candidates – return home to visit family, explore other culinary cultures, or simply recharge. You'll continue to receive full salary during this time.
- Structured Career Development: Unlike typical Sous Chef roles, this position offers documented mentorship with clear progression milestones – perfect for building a verifiable track record as you develop towards Head Chef level.
Who Will Excel In This Role
- Chefs from Asian or international backgrounds with strong classical training who are passionate about exploring modern European and Irish cuisine
- Professionals who enjoy variety and challenge – comfortable moving between refined plating for intimate dinners and managing high-volume banquet service
- Ambitious culinary leaders eager to gain comprehensive kitchen management experience in a supportive, mentored environment
- Those seeking a genuine career investment – not just a job, but a documented pathway to Head Chef credentials recognised internationally
- Chefs who value work-life balance and the unique opportunity for extended paid time off to maintain connections with home
If you're ready to expand your culinary repertoire, develop leadership skills, and gain experience that will set you apart in the international hospitality market, this role offers an exceptional platform for your ambitions.
Key Responsibilities
Traditional Sous Chef Duties
- Daily Operations: Assist in managing daily kitchen operations, ensuring smooth service delivery and high-quality standards.
- Food Preparation: Oversee food preparation, plating and presentation according to established standards.
- Quality Control: Maintain consistent food quality across all dishes, conducting regular checks throughout service.
- Service Leadership: Lead kitchen service during designated shifts, ensuring timely execution and coordination between stations.
- Health & Safety: Uphold strict food safety standards and ensure compliance with health regulations.
Development Path Responsibilities
- Staff Management: Take primary responsibility for kitchen staffing matters, including rota creation, absence management, and first-line response to staffing issues.
- Team Leadership: Develop and implement strategies to foster a positive kitchen culture, addressing minor conflicts and promoting teamwork.
- Training Delivery: Deliver training sessions to junior kitchen staff, developing your coaching and mentorship abilities.
- Menu Input: Collaborate with the Executive Head Chef on menu development, contributing ideas and receiving guidance on menu planning principles.
- Guest Experience: Work with the Executive Head Chef to identify and implement ways to exceed guest expectations through culinary excellence.
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Minimum 3-5 years' Sous Chef experience in a quality kitchen environment
- Previous experience in a mid-leadership position (e.g., Experienced Sous Chef )
- Strong culinary skills with attention to detail & presentation, and a passion for delivering excellent food & service
- Clear understanding of kitchen management principles
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Relevant culinary qualifications and food safety certifications
- Genuine ambition to progress to Head Chef level
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Minimum 3-5 years' Sous Chef experience in a quality kitchen environment
- Previous experience in a mid-leadership position (e.g., Experienced Sous Chef )
- Strong culinary skills with attention to detail & presentation, and a passion for delivering excellent food & service
- Clear understanding of kitchen management principles
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Relevant culinary qualifications and food safety certifications
- Genuine ambition to progress to Head Chef level
Salary & Benefits
A competitive salary package will be offered based on experience and qualifications, including:
- Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
- Holiday entitlement of 20+ days
- Paid during 8 week winter shutdown
- Staff accommodation available if required
- Meals on duty
- Professional development funding
- Staff discount programme
