Sous Chef

We’re hiring: Sous Chef – Join our amazing culinary team

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic and passionate team at the heart of Jersey’s premier wine estate. We’re looking for a talented Sous Chef to support our Head Chef across a diverse range of culinary experiences—from weddings and corporate events to our popular estate restaurant and artisan product ranges.

This unique role offers the chance to work across multiple facets of our food business, including our chocolate, preserves, and bakery production during the quieter season. With a structured five-day working week in low season (typically January to March) and a six-day week in high season (when required), we’re committed to creating a balanced and rewarding working environment.

• £16 per hour

• Four weeks’ paid holiday per year

• Consecutive days off in low season

About La Mare Wine Estate

Set within a lovingly restored 18th-century granite farmhouse, La Mare Wine Estate is a 20-acre working estate and one of Jersey’s most treasured destinations. As well as producing a celebrated range of wines, ciders, and spirits, we’re home to a dedicated kitchen that crafts genuine Jersey products including handmade chocolates, preserves, bakery goods, and the iconic Jersey Black Butter.

From our vineyards and orchards to our distillery, function spaces, and estate kitchens, La Mare is a fusion of heritage, craftsmanship, and exceptional hospitality. We welcome visitors year-round for tours, tastings, and events, while also retailing our products at two boutiques in St Helier and Jersey Airport.

The Role

As Sous Chef, you will support the Head Chef in the day-to-day operations of the estate’s kitchens, ensuring seamless delivery of food across all service areas—from private dining and events to our estate restaurant.

In the off-season, you’ll also collaborate with our food production teams in chocolate, preserves, and bakery manufacturing. This role is a fantastic opportunity for a chef looking to grow their skills across a range of culinary disciplines in a creative and collaborative environment.

You’ll also take the lead in the Head Chef’s absence, overseeing kitchen operations including:

• Food purchasing and budgeting

• Staff supervision and training

• Maintaining exceptional hygiene and food safety standards

Above all, you’ll play a key role in ensuring that every guest and customer receives an unforgettable dining experience that reflects the quality and heart of La Mare Wine Estate.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate food products and ensure consistent adherence to La Mare’s quality standards

• Maintain exemplary hygiene, cleanliness, and food safety practices throughout kitchen areas

• Work with the Head Chef and Front of House teams to ensure a smooth and elevated guest experience

• Manage food costs and portion control with a strong focus on minimising waste in line with our sustainable values.

• Train kitchen staff to ensure safe, hygienic, and professional food handling practices

• Personally cook and supervise the preparation of high-skill dishes

Skills & Experience

• A Diploma/Degree in Culinary Arts or substantial experience in a quality-focused restaurant, banqueting, or hospitality environment

• Demonstrated ability to work efficiently under pressure, producing high-quality results to tight deadlines

• Strong interpersonal and team leadership skills—able to inspire, support, and motivate staff

• Confident in cross-functional collaboration, particularly with FOH and events teams

• Creative problem solver with a proactive mindset

• Proven technical excellence in culinary execution

If you’re ready to bring your talent and creativity to a kitchen where quality, heritage, and innovation meet, we’d love to hear from you. Join us and be part of something truly special. Apply using the form below or contact us on 01534 481178