Experienced sous chef needed for Engine house number nine
Posted on December 22, 2025
Engine House No. 9 is a historic firehouse that has been thoughtfully transformed into a vibrant restaurant renowned in Tacoma, Washington for over 50 years. Celebrated for its unique blend of historic charm and modern culinary excellence, the establishment offers an inviting ambiance where guests enjoy not only excellent food but also a rich sense of local heritage. In the 1990s, Engine House No. 9 expanded its offerings by adding an award-winning brewery, which has since become an integral part of the restaurant's identity. This addition elevated the dining experience by pairing signature craft beers with a carefully curated menu of delectable dishes, earning the restaurant a loyal following and numerous accolades in the Pacific Northwest dining scene.
This reputation for quality and innovation continues to thrive, making Engine House No. 9 a cherished destination for both locals and visitors. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh ingredients, combined with its creative culinary approaches, ensures every dish served is memorable. The blend of historical allure and contemporary cuisine fosters a unique experience that is difficult to find elsewhere in the region. The restaurant’s dedication to craft brewing and culinary excellence makes it a standout establishment with a dynamic team passionate about food, hospitality, and community.
Currently, Engine House No. 9 is seeking a dedicated night-time kitchen lead to join its team as a Sous Chef. This full-time position offers an hourly wage ranging from $20.00 to $27.00 and is designed to support the smooth operation of the kitchen during evening shifts. The role requires no more than 40 hours per week and is essential to maintaining the high standards of food quality and kitchen efficiency for which the restaurant is known.
As a Sous Chef at Engine House No. 9, you will serve as the right hand to the head chef and play a critical leadership role within the kitchen team. This role demands exceptional communication skills, sharp attention to detail, and the ability to lead and inspire others through example. You will assist in managing prepped items, supplies, food inventory, and menu planning, ensuring everything functions efficiently during night shifts. On occasions when the head chef is unavailable, you will be responsible for commanding the kitchen team and ensuring all kitchen operations uphold the restaurant’s standards.
Key responsibilities include overseeing recipe adherence, portion control, training new and existing staff, delegating cleaning tasks, and managing inventory processes. The position also demands a proactive approach to communication, with the expectation that you will keep the chef apprised of stock levels and any needs for reordering. The role involves working collaboratively with the team to creatively utilize leftover products, reducing waste while maintaining menu quality.
Engine House No. 9 values a team-oriented workplace where respect and mutual support are paramount, especially during night shifts. The ideal candidate will demonstrate leadership capabilities by issuing clear guidance on opening and closing procedures and ensuring all tasks are completed with diligence. The position offers employee benefits including dental and health insurance, vision insurance, paid time off, flexible scheduling, and an employee discount. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated culinary professional to advance their career in a historic setting that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum 2 years of experience in a professional kitchen environment
- Ability to work night shifts
- Must be able to commute to Tacoma, WA 98406
- Willingness to relocate to Tacoma, WA before starting work
- Physical stamina to handle kitchen demands
- Strong organizational skills