和食調理人 (副料理長) / Japanese Sous Chef

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Japanese Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef in managing Japanese cuisine operations, maintaining food quality, controlling costs, and supervising kitchen colleagues. Candidates typically need professional experience in Japanese cuisine, strong knife and cooking skills, knowledge of food hygiene and HACCP practices, and the ability to lead a team during busy service. Experience in a luxury hotel or high-end restaurant is advantageous. Fluency in Japanese is generally expected, while conversational English may be required in an international hotel environment. The successful candidate should demonstrate creativity, discipline, attention to detail, reliable communication, and a guest-focused attitude. Flexibility to work shifts, weekends, and holidays is essential.

About the employer

The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa is a luxury resort operated by Marriott International, one of the world’s largest hospitality companies. Located in northern Okinawa near the coast, the resort combines refined accommodation, Japanese-inspired service, wellness facilities, golf, and multiple dining venues. Its culinary operations focus on high-quality local and international ingredients, including Okinawan produce and seafood. The Ritz-Carlton brand is known for personalized service, elegant surroundings, rigorous operating standards, and extensive colleague training. Employees generally work in a multicultural hotel environment with opportunities to develop through Marriott’s global network. Benefits may include staff meals, uniforms, training, accommodation assistance, transportation support, and employee rates at participating Marriott properties, although details depend on the specific contract and location.

Working in Japan

Japan offers strong opportunities in hotels, restaurants, resorts, tourism, and seasonal hospitality, particularly in Okinawa, Tokyo, Kyoto, Hokkaido, and major coastal destinations. Okinawa has a warm subtropical climate, beaches, a relaxed pace, and distinctive Ryukyuan culture, while Japan more broadly values punctuality, respect, teamwork, cleanliness, and careful attention to service. Living costs vary considerably; Okinawa is generally cheaper than Tokyo but transportation can be more limited outside the main cities. Foreign workers usually need an employer-sponsored work visa, with eligibility depending on qualifications, experience, and the role. Applicants should arrange a Certificate of Eligibility before applying for the visa and confirm health insurance, pension, housing, taxes, and relocation support. Japanese language ability is highly valuable for daily life and workplace integration, even when English is used by guests or international colleagues.