The Winton, a well-loved country pub in East Lothian, is looking for a passionate and committed Sous Chef to support the day-to-day running of the kitchen and help shape our evolving food offering. Opening four years ago, The Winton has quickly established itself as a destination eatery within the local community, known for quality, consistency, and a welcoming atmosphere. Working closely with the Head Chef, you’ll be the key link between senior leadership and the wider team. This is a hands-on role suited to a focused and reliable chef with a strong grounding in classic British and modern cookery, delivering pub classics done well alongside creative, seasonal gastropub dishes. We are a scratch kitchen focusing on flavour and seasonality. You’ll play an important role in maintaining these standards while helping to develop junior chefs and build a positive, supportive kitchen culture.
*Key Responsibilities Kitchen Operations*
* Support the Head Chef in the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen * Lead service in the Head Chef’s absence, ensuring calm, consistent delivery during busy periods * Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and cleanliness * Ensure all dishes are prepared and served in line with agreed specifications
*Team Leadership & Development*
* Act as the bridge between the Head Chef and the kitchen team * Train, support, and mentor junior chefs * Promote a positive, hard-working, and respectful kitchen environment
*Rotas & Labour Control*
* Assist with managing rotas and kitchen labour alongside the GM/Duty Manager * Help control wage percentages and maintain efficient staffing levels
*Menu Planning & Development*
* Contribute practical and creative menu ideas, reflecting seasonality and the style of a quality country pub * Use the specials board to trial new dishes and refine them with the Head Chef * Ensure recipes are followed consistently and accurately * Support ongoing menu development
*Specifications & Standards*
* Assist in maintaining the kitchen spec book * Ensure consistency in portioning, plating, and overall dish standards
*Procurement & Cost Control*
* Support ordering in line with suppliers, costings, and menu requirements * Help manage GP and food costs through good prep, portion control, and waste reduction * Assist with sourcing quality local produce
*Food Safety & Compliance*
* Ensure full compliance with food safety and health & safety standards (FSMS, HACCP, COSHH, CookSafe)* Maintain allergen records and ensure team awareness * Uphold best practices in hygiene, temperature control, and stock rotation
*Record Keeping & Administration*
* Complete daily, weekly, and monthly food safety records * Carry out probe checks and ensure equipment is properly maintained * Ensure staff food is recorded correctly when leading shifts
*Stock Control*
* Support stocktaking, including counts, wastage tracking, and reporting * Maintain good stock rotation and minimise waste
*What We Offer*
* Competitive salary plus excellent tips/tronc * A good work-life balance with minimal very early starts or late finishes * A supportive team environment in a busy, community-focused country pub * The opportunity to grow your career within a business that continues to develop year on year
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £30,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person…