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Sous Chef

On-site in Barcelona·Full-time·Added 3 months ago

This job was published 3 months ago

Utopia

19 open roles

Overview

Job details

  • Freelance contract

    Full-time hours.

Requirements

  • Have the right to work in Spain

    No sponsorship mentioned, and this kind of work is rarely sponsored in Spain.

  • Work in English

    English is required, per the ad.

  • Work on-site in Barcelona

    No relocation package mentioned.

  • Have 3+ years of experience

    Mid-level role.

Pay & benefits

What you'll get

  • Exclusive environment: work within one of Barcelona's most prestigious private residences
  • Build and shape the kitchen culture and culinary identity from the ground up
  • High-profile exposure: serve an elite private household within the international luxury circuit
  • Competitive package: remuneration aligned with the exceptional level of this role

Due to the nature of this placement, the client's identity is kept strictly confidential. Full details will be shared with shortlisted candidates at the appropriate stage of the process.

Requirements

What we're looking for

You will run mise en place, hold the station, maintain full HACCP documentation, and - critically - be able to cover the entire family day on your own when the Head Chef is absent. That does not change because someone is on leave.
We are looking for a Sous Chef with at least three years at Sous or strong Chef de Partie level, who is calm, precise, and understands that in a private household consistency matters more than creativity. Current HACCP and food-handler certification required. Absolute discretion is a condition of employment.

  • 3 to 10 years as Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie in a fine-dining restaurant, luxury hotel or private household
  • Demonstrated comfort working to strict dietary rules - allergy, medical, or elimination diet
  • Fluent English or Spanish, working proficiency
  • Ability to work seamlessly as part of a small, close-knit team with a collaborative, ego-free attitude.
  • Absolute discretion and professionalism - the ability to operate within a confidential private household with maturity and integrity.
  • A proactive, detail-driven approach - someone who takes ownership, anticipates problems, and consistently raises the bar.
  • Current HACCP and food-handler certification

The role

A private family residence near Barcelona is seeking a Sous Chef to work alongside its Head Chef. This is a permanent, full-time position cooking for one family - two principals and four children.
The kitchen follows a strict dietary framework: all cooking is done in clarified butter, industrial seed oils and processed foods are excluded, bread and pastries are not served, and salads are always served undressed with dressings on the side. Everything is made from scratch on the day, from produce sourced that morning.

What you'll do

  • Support the Head Chef in the preparation and execution of daily meals, private dinners, and special events to the highest standard.
  • Step up and lead the kitchen confidently and autonomously during the Head Chef's absence, maintaining full continuity of quality and service.
  • Assist in menu development, ingredient sourcing, stock control, and supplier coordination, ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently at all times.
  • Uphold the strictest food safety, allergen management, and kitchen hygiene protocols - non-negotiable in a private household environment.
  • Anticipate needs, propose improvements, and bring a proactive mindset to daily operations - contributing ideas before being asked.
  • Adapt flexibly to the household's schedule, including events.

How you'll work

This is a freelance / on-call position, active during the principals' stays at the property. The frequency and duration of engagements may vary throughout the year. Candidates must be available to commit to confirmed dates and deliver the same level of excellence on every occasion, regardless of duration. There is potential for this role to evolve into a permanent position for the right candidate. Occasional travel may also be required as part of the engagement.

About Utopia

Utopia is a luxury hospitality and residential services company based in Barcelona, Spain, specializing in high-end property management, architectural design, and personalized lifestyle services for private estates and exclusive developments. The company operates across the EMEA region, offering integrated solutions that range from architectural and structural engineering to interior design, construction management, and bespoke household staffing such as private chefs, butlers, and housekeeping professionals. With a focus on delivering 'life worth living' experiences, Utopia serves a discerning clientele seeking turnkey management of their luxury properties.

In Spain, Utopia is headquartered in Barcelona and maintains a strong presence in the luxury real estate and hospitality sectors, with remote roles spanning across the country and the wider EMEA region. The company's work culture emphasizes precision, discretion, and high service standards, making it an attractive employer for international professionals with experience in luxury hospitality, architecture, or high-end property management. For relocating professionals, Utopia offers opportunities to work on prestigious projects and collaborate with a diverse, multilingual team, though many roles require fluency in English and sometimes Spanish, and some positions are remote-friendly.

Employees
150
Headquarters
Barcelona, Spain
In Spain
Barcelona

Good to know if you are moving

  • Utopia is based in Barcelona, Spain, offering a Mediterranean lifestyle and access to a vibrant international community.
  • Many roles are remote or based in Spain, providing flexibility for international professionals relocating to the region.
  • The company serves a luxury clientele, offering opportunities to work on high-end architectural and hospitality projects.
  • Fluency in English is often required, and Spanish is beneficial for many positions, especially those involving local staff or clients.
  • Roles span diverse fields, from architecture and engineering to hospitality and household management, catering to various professional backgrounds.
All open roles at Utopia

Location

Utopia · Barcelona

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