Executive Sous Chef

Executive Sous Chef – Capers Catering (Boston Area)

Full-Time | Leadership Role | Scratch Kitchen | Custom Catering

Capers Catering, a top-tier custom catering company serving the greater Boston area, is seeking a talented and highly motivated Executive Sous Chef to join our culinary leadership team. Known for our fresh, scratch-made menus, thoughtful presentation, and commitment to local, seasonal ingredients, Capers has been setting the standard in New England catering since 1992. As Executive Sous Chef, you’ll work directly alongside the Executive Chef, supporting day-to-day kitchen operations, mentoring staff, and stepping into the Executive Chef role when needed.

This is a hands-on leadership position ideal for a strategic team player with strong culinary chops, organizational skills, and a passion for team development and culinary excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Culinary Leadership & Support

• Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef to ensure all commissary and event kitchen operations run smoothly and efficiently.
• Provide direct supervision and mentorship to Sous Chefs, Prep Cooks, Lead Event Chefs, Kitchen Assistants, and Dishwashers.
• Run off-premise events as the Lead Chef, overseeing set-up, execution, plating, and breakdown.
• Earn event pay at an hourly rate in addition to base salary.
• Serve as the acting Executive Chef during absences, ensuring continuity in leadership, quality, and communication.

Production & Quality Control

• Oversee daily food production and prep work for a wide variety of menus, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to culinary standards.
• Monitor plating and portioning to ensure consistency with recipe specifications and presentation standards.
• Assist with recipe testing, documentation, and implementation of new menu items and seasonal offerings.

Training & Communication

• Support the Executive Chef in leading weekly kitchen meetings, pre-shift gatherings, and kitchen-wide trainings.
• Play a key role in planning and executing new menu rollouts, ensuring thorough training for all cooks and event chefs.
• Foster a positive, professional culture that supports growth, teamwork, and accountability.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Ensure food safety and sanitation procedures are followed at all times in accordance with company policies and ServSafe standards.
• Assist with maintaining and tracking food handler certifications for the kitchen team.

Collaboration & Operations

• Work collaboratively with Sales, Operations, and Accounting teams to help ensure successful event execution and alignment with company goals.
• Participate in planning and logistics for large-scale events and support with packing and load-out as needed.
• Contribute to recipe costing and budgeting processes when requested by the Executive Chef.

Qualifications:

• Experience in Banquet experience strongly preferred.
• Strong culinary skills with a commitment to quality, consistency, and creative problem-solving.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a team in both commissary and off-site environments.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work on your feet for extended periods.
• ServSafe Certified or able to obtain certification promptly.
• Valid driver’s license and flexibility to travel to off-premise events (local area).
• Comfortable using Google Workspace or similar platforms for communication and planning.

Why Capers Catering?

• Join a respected, collaborative culinary team known for excellence and creativity.
• Work in a values-driven environment focused on sustainability, innovation, and thoughtful service.
• Enjoy opportunities for professional growth and leadership development within a supportive company culture.
• Help shape unforgettable events and contribute to menus that reflect the season, the client, and the moment.

Compensation Benefits:

• Base Salary: $85,000 - $90,000, Off-Premise Event Pay is additional and paid at an hourly rate.
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Paid Vacations
• Continuing Education Ongoing Training Opportunities
• and more