Sous Chef – The Nest Kigali
About The Nest Kigali
The Nest Kigali is a boutique hotel and restaurant in Kimihurura — a leafy, creative neighborhood that attracts curious travelers and adventurous minds. Our restaurant, Tweet, serves sophisticated yet wholesome dishes that celebrate local ingredients with global flair. We value authenticity, creativity, and collaboration — and we’re looking for a Sous Chef who can bring energy, discipline, and craft to our kitchen.
Role Overview
The Sous Chef leads the hot kitchen, ensuring high standards of flavor, presentation, and consistency across all dishes. Working closely with the Head Chef, this role manages day-to-day operations, supervises cooks, and helps design menus that balance creativity with cost control. The ideal candidate is hands-on, reliable, and thrives in a small, fast-paced kitchen.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Leadership & Operations
- Support the Head Chef in managing the full kitchen operation.
 - Supervise line cooks, prep staff, and coordinate service flow.
 - Oversee mise en place, plating, and consistency of all savory dishes.
 - Ensure smooth communication between kitchen and service teams.
 - Step in as acting Head Chef when required.
 
Menu Development & Quality Control
- Assist in creating and testing new recipes and specials.
 - Ensure dishes meet presentation and flavor standards.
 - Maintain recipe documentation, portion control, and yield consistency.
 - Monitor food cost, waste, and stock rotation (FIFO).
 
Hygiene, Safety & Maintenance
- Enforce hygiene and food safety standards in line with HACCP.
 - Maintain cleanliness and organization of all kitchen sections.
 - Identify and report equipment maintenance needs.
 
Teamwork & Training
- Train, coach, and motivate junior kitchen staff.
 - Lead by example with professionalism, punctuality, and teamwork.
 - Foster a collaborative environment with the pastry section and front of house.
 
Education & Experience
- Diploma or Certificate in Culinary Arts or related field.
 - 3+ years of experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Cook.
 - Proven ability to manage kitchen operations in a small team environment.
 
Skills & Attributes
- Strong culinary and plating skills across multiple cuisines.
 - Excellent communication and organizational skills.
 - Knowledge of cost control and stock management.
 - Calm under pressure; flexible to work early mornings or weekends.
 - Passionate, reliable, and committed to high standards.
 
To apply please email your CV and Cover Letter to recruitment@thenestkigali.com