Sous Chef

MAKINA CAFE SOUS CHEF

About The Company

Makina Cafe is an established woman-owned Eritrean-Ethiopian Hospitality Company with a food truck, a catering kitchen, and a food stall on Governors Island. In the spring of 2025 Makina will be opening its first full-service brick and mortar location in Sunnyside / Long Island City, and the first Eritrean-Ethiopian restaurant in the famously diverse borough of Queens. Makina Café’s mission is to serve delicious East African food without fear of putting a spin on this time-honored cuisine, and to educate their public about the history and culture behind this revered, long-standing culinary tradition in a welcoming, hospitable environment.

About The Role

Makina Café seeks a talented and dedicated chef with a legacy of kitchen management to lead the culinary team at our exciting new brick-and-mortar location in Queens. This is a unique opportunity for a passionate chef to join a growing company and play a key role in launching our first full-service restaurant, shaping the future of Makina Café and bringing the vibrant flavors of Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine to a wider audience.The Sous Chef will be responsible for leading a team of cooks in the pristine execution of an Eritrean-Ethiopian menu that features classic ingredients with a modern touch. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in East African cuisine and proven experience overseeing staff, managing kitchen inventory, and cooking excellent food to high standards of taste, quality, and presentation.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 3+ years of experience in culinary leadership
• Experience in African or other diverse cuisines and related cooking techniques
• Demonstrated experience as a great team leader with a positive attitude
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills
• Practiced at the giving and receiving of critical feedback
• Proven ability to multitask and work well under pressure
• Robust knowledge of cooking techniques, knife handling, food preparation
• Passionate commitment to cooking great food
• High standards for cleanliness
• Ability to lift 30+ pounds
• Night & weekend availability
• Food Handler’s Certification

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES