SUSHI CHEF

Job Title: Sushi Chef

We are seeking a skilled and passionate Sushi Chef to join our culinary team. The Sushi Chef will prepare high-quality nigiri, sashimi, maki, and other Japanese-inspired dishes, maintain kitchen cleanliness, ensure food safety, and uphold the restaurant’s standards of presentation and taste. The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with creativity, works well in a fast-paced environment, and maintains a positive, team-oriented attitude.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare and present sushi (nigiri, sashimi, maki, temaki) and Japanese-inspired dishes to the restaurant’s standards for taste, texture, and visual appeal.

• Select, portion, and portion-control fish and other ingredients; handle fish with proper techniques and hygiene.
• Maintain knife skills, mise en place, and production flow for lunch and dinner service.
• Monitor quality and freshness of all ingredients; communicate ingredient needs to the head chef or purchasing staff.
• Create and update seasonal or specialty rolls and daily specials in collaboration with the head chef.
• Ensure proper food safety, sanitation, and HACCP compliance; maintain a clean and organized workstation.
• Collaborate with the kitchen team to coordinate timing and plating for service, ensuring timely delivery of courses.
• Train and supervise junior sushi staff and prep cooks; provide constructive feedback and mentorship.
• Maintain inventory, label and rotate stock, and minimize waste.

Requirements

Proven experience as a sushi chef or senior line cook with a strong sushi background (minimum 2–4 years preferred; more for upscale concepts).

• Expertise in fish handling, knife work (e.g., santoku, yanagiba, deba), and precise portioning.
• Knowledge of traditional and contemporary sushi preparation techniques and presentation.
• Familiarity with food safety standards, HACCP, and sanitation practices.
• Ability to work at a fast pace during peak hours while maintaining quality and precision.
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and teamwork skills.
• Strong communication skills and a positive, professional attitude.

Education and Experience

• Culinary diploma or degree preferred, but not mandatory with demonstrated sushi credentials.
• Certification in food safety or ServSafe or equivalent is a plus.

Physical Demands

• Must stand for extended periods; frequent bending, kneeling, and repetitive motions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds; frequent handling of cold ingredients and equipment.

Working Conditions

• Typically requires exposure to heat, steam, and tall stacked ingredients in a busy kitchen.
• Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may be required depending on the restaurant schedule.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Bonus/incentive opportunities, if applicable.
• Health/dental/vision benefits, paid time off, staff meals, and opportunities for advancement.
• Job Advertisement Sample (short posting)
• Job Title: Sushi Chef
• Location: [City, State]

We are a [type of restaurant, e.g., modern Japanese-inspired concept] seeking a skilled Sushi Chef to join our culinary team. The ideal candidate has 2–4+ years of sushi experience, mastery of nigiri, sashimi, and maki, and a passion for creating beautiful, high-quality plates.

What you’ll do

• Prepare and plate sushi and sashimi with precision and artistry.
• Maintain fresh, high-quality ingredients and manage proper fish handling.
• Collaborate with the kitchen team to deliver outstanding guest experiences.
• Train and mentor junior staff; uphold the highest standards of cleanliness and safety.

What we’re looking for

• Proven sushi preparation experience; strong knife skills and knowledge of traditional and modern rolls.
• Commitment to food safety and sanitation.
• Ability to work calmly in a fast-paced environment and teamwork-oriented mindset.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

We offer

• Competitive pay, staff meals, and growth opportunities within a supportive kitchen.
• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision) after eligibility.
• A dynamic work environment with room to creatively contribute to seasonal menus.

How to apply

• Send your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting your sushi specialties and availability to
• ••••@gmail.com

Optional variations you can adapt

• Emphasize cuisine style: “edomae-style nigiri,” “Omakase-focused,” “vegetarian/vegan sushi options.”
• Highlight certifications: ServSafe, HACCP, Ocean Wise, sustainable seafood sourcing.
• *Note if you’re seeking chef de partie-level leadership or junior-support roles.