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Job Details

Sous Chef – KANDŌ (Private Members-Only Lounge)

  2025-04-17     KANDO     Ashland,OR  
Description:

Location:

Ashland, OR

Position Type:
Full-Time

Compensation:
Competitive salary, plus relocation assistance for the right candidate


About KANDO

KANDO is an exclusive, members-only lounge offering a deeply personalized hospitality experience in a refined yet intimate setting. Created by James Beard Award finalist Chef Josh Dorcak, KANDO is inspired by the Japanese concept of kando- a profound, moving experience. The menu will focus on canapes, small plates, and select entrees, blending fine-dining precision with a sense of effortless indulgence.

This is a rare opportunity to build something truly special, crafting a bespoke culinary program that complements KANDO's world-class wine, sake, and cocktail offerings.


The Role: Sous Chef

We are seeking an exceptionally proactive and visionary Sous Chef to take a leading role in designing, developing, and executing KANDO's culinary experience. Working closely with Chef Josh Dorcak, this position will require a high level of creativity, strategic thinking, and hands-on execution within a minimal yet highly adaptable kitchen space.

The right candidate will have the unique opportunity to shape the food program from the ground up, developing a rotating, seasonal menu that aligns with KANDO's ethos of exclusivity, refinement, and innovation.


Key Responsibilities

  • Conceptualize and execute a fine-dining canape and small plates program, with potential for select entrees.

  • Work in direct collaboration with Chef Josh Dorcak to develop a menu that aligns with the philosophy and atmosphere of KANDO.

  • Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including sourcing, prep, execution, and plating, while maintaining exceptional quality and consistency.

  • Manage inventory, supplier relationships, and cost control while ensuring the highest ingredient standards.

  • Adapt and innovate within a small, minimalist kitchen setup, maximizing creativity and efficiency.

  • Work autonomously and take full ownership of the program, demonstrating self-drive, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and meticulously detailed kitchen, adhering to health and safety standards.

  • Provide a seamless guest experience, ensuring every dish meets KANDO's level of excellence.


Who You Are

  • A highly self-driven chef with a clear vision and the ability to execute innovative culinary ideas with precision.

  • Experienced in fine dining, luxury hospitality, or exclusive/private club dining, with a deep understanding of elevated food service.

  • Comfortable working in a small kitchen environment, with the ability to adapt and think creatively within limitations.

  • A proven leader, able to take initiative and drive a food program independently while collaborating closely with the executive team.

  • Passionate about seasonality, ingredient-driven cooking, and modern culinary techniques.

  • Someone who thrives in high-level, detail-oriented execution, ensuring that each plate is both artful and flawless.

  • Skilled at managing a tight, efficient operation, keeping service seamless and ingredients meticulously curated.


Preferred Qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience in a Sous Chef or comparable leadership role within a fine-dining setting.

  • Experience designing and executing a canape or small plates program in a high-end lounge or restaurant.

  • Strong background in creative menu development with a focus on precision, balance, and innovation.

  • Deep knowledge of luxury ingredients, fermentation, preservation, and refined plating techniques.

  • Proven ability to work with minimal infrastructure, leveraging creativity to build an exceptional food program.

  • Experience in Japanese, Nordic, or progressive fine dining is a plus.


Why Join KANDO?

  • Be a founding force in shaping an exclusive, high-touch hospitality experience unlike anything else in the region.

  • Creative freedom to build a one-of-a-kind fine-dining food program in a luxurious, members-only setting.

  • Collaborate directly with one of the Northwest's most respected chefs to bring a visionary concept to life.

  • Enjoy a tight-knit, high-caliber team committed to excellence and innovation.

  • Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate we want to find the best talent to bring this vision to reality.


How to Apply

If you are a self-motivated, forward-thinking chef who thrives in a high-level, fine-dining environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Please send your resume, portfolio (if available), and a short statement on why this opportunity excites you.

Join us in crafting an unparalleled culinary experience at KANDO.



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