The MAC - Who We Are
At the MAC, we are more than an arts venue—we are a creative hub that fosters bold, imaginative experiences, connecting people with the transformative power of the arts.
We believe in the potential of culture to inspire, challenge, and engage diverse audiences. Our mission is to spark creativity, empower communities, and create a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard.
Every day, we work to create a more inclusive and vibrant city through the arts as a cultural leader in Belfast and beyond, known for innovative programming, creative excellence, and social impact.
Job Overview
We are looking for a passionate, personable and enthusiastic Sous Chef to contribute to the successful day-to-day operation of its food service. Working closely with the Head Chef, the Sous Chef will assist with the daily running of the kitchen and take responsibility for the assigned section, ensuring the highest possible standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene and service are consistently maintained.
As second in command, the Sous Chef will be responsible for overseeing the kitchen team in the absence of the Head Chef and ensuring that all staff within their area of responsibility adhere to relevant legislative and organisational requirements, including HACCP, COSHH, food safety, hygiene and health and safety standards.
The successful candidate will have excellent communication and problem-solving skills, a rigorous attention to detail and the confidence to work effectively in a fast-paced kitchen environment. They will take pride in producing food of outstanding quality and presentation and will be committed to maintaining high standards throughout every stage of food preparation and service.
Finally, you will be passionate about the MAC and will enthusiastically embrace all elements of its unique organisational culture.
What hours will I work?
You will have flexible working hours of approximately 40 hours per week worked over 5 days out of 7. The MAC is family friendly so if you are looking for family friendly hours this could be the job for you.
The MAC is open 6 days a week, Tuesday - Sunday, so weekends and some evenings are expected in this role. We serve from 9.00 am so preparation for our breakfast customers will begin at about 8am. We also cater for large corporate events, business functions and parties.
Duties
The MAC Kitchen / Kitchen Operations
· Leads the kitchen team in the absence of the Head Chef.
· Oversees the day-to-day running and organisation of the kitchen.
· Ensures cooking stations are fully stocked and prepared before and during peak service.
· Supervises food preparation, cooking and plating to ensure consistency and quality.
· Maintains kitchen organisation, cleanliness and operational efficiency.
· Oversees kitchen stock and ingredient management.
· Ensures food is rotated using the First In, First Out (FIFO) system.
· Ensures all food products are correctly dated, labelled and organised.
· Checks that food storage areas and equipment are appropriately managed.
· Assists the Head Chef with menu development and implementation.
· Works with the Head Chef to improve kitchen processes and efficiency.
· Supports the kitchen during busy periods and ensures smooth service delivery
Customer Care / Food Quality & Experience
· Ensures all food leaving the kitchen meets restaurant standards for quality, presentation and consistency.
· Oversees plating and presentation to ensure dishes meet the required standard.
· Ensures food is prepared and served in a timely manner, particularly during peak periods.
· Responds appropriately to customer feedback relating to food quality and presentation.
· Works with the kitchen and café/bar teams to maintain a consistent customer experience.
· Ensures dietary, allergen and special food requirements are communicated and managed appropriately.
Qualifications
· Qualification in professional cookery
Health and safety and food hygiene certificate
Essential Experience
· A minimum of 2 years’ experience in a commercial kitchen in a supervisory role
· A minimum of 1 years’ experience with financial management of budgets
Extensive experience in HACCP
Desirable Experience
First Aid at Work
Experience in developing menus
Pay: £15.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
Experience:
- Professional Cooking: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person
