Job Description

Sous Chef – Savory Lead (New Opening)

Schedule: Full Time
Salary: $60,000–75,000 (with potential growth to Senior Sous Chef)
Location: New York City

Copperleaf Bakery is a new bakery-café opening in 2025, bringing together artisanal breads, pastries, specialty coffee, and a vibrant savory menu inspired by the culture of our direct neighborhood and cultures around the world. We believe in creating memorable guest experiences through pride in our craft, warmth in our service, and creativity in our food.

We’re building a tight-knit team that values collaboration, inclusivity, and professional growth — where employees feel supported, engaged, and inspired.

We’re looking for a Sous Chef (Savory Lead) to help launch and lead Copperleaf’s savory program. Working closely with our Executive Bread& Pastry Chef, you’ll play a key role in shaping and executing our all-day savory menu, from creative sandwiches and seasonal dishes to brunch and aperitivo offerings.

This role is hands-on, combining leadership and cooking — ideal for a strong Sous Chef or an ambitious cook ready to take on more responsibility. As Copperleaf grows, this position has a clear pathway to Senior Sous Chef or Chef de Cuisine.

• Lead the savory kitchen team, managing line cooks and prep schedules.

• Collaborate with the Executive Bread & Pastry Chef on menu development and execution.

• Ensure consistency, quality, and creativity across all savory dishes.

• Oversee ordering, stock control, and inventory.

• Maintain kitchen cleanliness, safety, and DOH compliance.

• Train, mentor, and motivate team members, fostering a positive and professional culture.

• Assist with food costing, budgeting, and operational efficiency.

• Experience as a Sous Chef, Jr. Sous, or strong lead line cook looking to grow.

• Passion for high-quality baked goods, savory food, and seasonal and global cooking.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and mentor a team.

• Brings creativity and careful attention to detail in both cooking and presentation.

• Working knowledge of kitchen operations, inventory, and food safety.

• A proactive, solution-oriented approach and strong work ethic — willing to jump in wherever needed to support the team.

• Collaborative and goal-driven, contributing to both team success and a positive kitchen culture.

• ServSafe and DOH Food Protection Certifications are a huge plus.

• Salary: $65,000–$75,000 (with potential to grow)

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.

• Paid Time Off.

• 401k.

• Opportunities for career growth as Copperleaf expands.

At Copperleaf, we believe in pride of craft and excellence in service. Every guest should feel cared for, and every team member should feel supported and inspired. As an opening team member, you’ll play a key role in setting the tone for Copperleaf’s service culture and shaping a bakery-café that blends craft with hospitality.

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