Sous Chef

Shokunin — proudly ranked #74 on Canada's 100 Best Restaurants and home to Chef Darren MacLean's bold take on Japanese-style cuisine — is seeking a skilled and passionate Sous Chef to join our kitchen leadership team.

This is your opportunity to work in one of the country's most innovative culinary spaces, where tradition meets fire, precision meets chaos, and every plate tells a story. If you thrive under pressure, obsess over details, and bring pride to every cut, sear, and sauce — we want you on the line.

Join Calgary's most dynamic kitchen team and elevate your culinary career at one of Canada's top-ranked restaurants.

ROLE DESCRIPTION:

As Sous Chef, you'll work closely with our Executive and Head Chefs to execute an elevated, ever-evolving menu rooted in Japanese techniques and seasonal Canadian ingredients. You'll help drive excellence in every service while mentoring junior staff and leading by example in both speed and discipline.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Kitchen Leadership & Operations

• Lead mise en place and service operations with consistency and urgency
• Oversee cleanliness and organization of stations and equipment
• Execute advanced prep techniques: butchery, fish breakdown, sauce work, fermentation, and specialty preparations
• Handle and prepare wide range of raw fish, poultry, and proteins with precision and Japanese technique mastery
• Support equipment maintenance and uphold rigorous food safety standards

Menu Development & Innovation

• Collaborate with Head Chef to develop and evolve menu items using Japanese culinary techniques
• Participate in team meetings, tastings, and creative planning sessions
• Contribute to seasonal menu development and special event preparations
• Maintain consistency in presentation and flavor profiles across all dishes

Team Leadership & Training

• Manage and train line cooks and kitchen staff with clear communication and high standards
• Mentor junior staff in Japanese cooking techniques and kitchen discipline
• Lead by example during high-volume service periods
• Foster collaborative environment focused on culinary excellence

Quality & Standards

• Uphold Shokunin's reputation for quality, efficiency, and innovation
• Ensure all dishes meet Chef Darren MacLean's exacting standards
• Maintain speed and precision during peak service times
• Support kitchen culture of continuous improvement and learning

WHAT YOU BRING:

• Minimum 3 years of kitchen experience, ideally in high-end or fast-paced culinary environments
• Knowledge of Japanese cuisine and techniques — or a strong willingness to learn deeply
• Fierce commitment to speed, precision, and cleanliness
• Ability to manage multiple stations and lead by example during high-volume service
• Confidence to train, mentor, and motivate other kitchen staff
• Availability for days, late nights, weekends, and public holidays
• Culinary program certification is an asset but not required
• Passion for Japanese culinary culture and commitment to continuous learning

WHAT YOU'LL GET:

• Competitive salary with performance-based opportunities for advancement
• Full-time employment in a nationally acclaimed restaurant
• A leadership role in one of Calgary's most dynamic kitchen teams
• A chance to create and grow within a globally recognized food culture brand

If you're ready to sharpen your craft, lead with fire, and cook with purpose —

Apply now and step into the heat at Shokunin.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $45,000.00-$65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• Vision care

Application question(s):

• Have you worked in fine dining, high-volume, or award-winning restaurant kitchens?

Experience:

• working in a fine dining restaurant: 3 years (required)

Location:

• Calgary, AB T2S 1W3 (required)

Work Location: In person