KOZY Restaurant & Bar
Modern Korean Dining Bar – Libertyville, IL
Position: Sous Chef
Experience Required: 4+ years professional kitchen experience
About Kozy
Kozy is a modern Korean dining bar focused on refined hospitality, elevated yet approachable cuisine, and thoughtful execution.
Led by a hands-on chef-owner with Michelin-influenced and farm-to-table background, we are building a disciplined yet supportive kitchen culture rooted in craft, respect, and consistency.
We are seeking a Sous Chef who is organized, composed under pressure, and committed to building something meaningful from the ground up.
Position Overview
The Sous Chef will work directly with the Chef-Owner to oversee daily kitchen operations and maintain high execution standards. This role requires strong leadership, attention to detail, and the ability to guide a team through busy dinner service.
Responsibilities
Oversee daily mise en place and prep execution
Lead the line during dinner service when needed
Train and mentor line cooks
Maintain consistency in plating and portion standards
Monitor ticket flow and kitchen timing
Assist with inventory, ordering, and food cost control
Ensure sanitation and food safety compliance
Support seasonal menu updates and testing
Requirements
4+ years of professional kitchen experience
1–2 years in a leadership role (Lead Line or Sous preferred)
Strong foundational cooking skills and knife skills
Ability to manage service calmly and efficiently
Understanding of basic food cost and inventory systems
Evening and weekend availability
Food Handler Certification required
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in upscale casual or fine dining environments
Familiarity with Korean cuisine, fermentation, or Asian flavors is preferred but not required
Strong interest in learning and executing modern Korean flavors
Experience in an opening restaurant environment
Compensation
$55,000 – $65,000 annually (based on experience)
or
$22 – $24 per hour
Paid time off
Staff meals
bonus (food cost control)
Growth opportunity as Kozy expands
Our Kitchen Culture
At Kozy, we believe:
Discipline creates consistency
Clean kitchens create clear minds
Leaders serve their team
Growth comes from accountability
We are building a kitchen that values craft without ego.
