A respected sushi restaurant group in Japan is hiring sushi chefs for outlets in Tokyo and Kyoto. The role covers rice prep, fish breakdown, and nigiri and roll work during lunch and dinner service. The position is full-time with split shifts and one weekly off day. Starting pay sits between JPY 280,000 and JPY 380,000 per month plus seasonal bonus, which matches the current market rate for trained sushi chefs in Japan.
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The team welcomes both trained sushi cooks and skilled hot kitchen chefs who want to cross-train. Each new joiner gets paid station training on fish handling, knife work, and shari rice. Strong chefs move into station lead, head sushi, or training roles within two years.
Company Overview
The hiring group runs sushi counters and small kaiseki rooms known for fresh fish and clean service. The business sources daily from the local fish market. Each kitchen has a head sushi chef who plans the day. The work culture stresses sharp knife work, clean stations, and respect for the produce.
Responsibilities
- Prepare shari rice to the head chef’s recipe and time.
- Break down whole fish into clean fillets and portions.
- Shape nigiri, maki, and temaki to the brand style.
- Plate sashimi to set patterns and portions.
- Maintain knives and small tools through each shift.
- Keep the fridge, cutting board, and counter clean.
- Greet counter guests and explain the menu when asked.
- Follow HACCP and fish safety rules at all times.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Trade time of at least three years in sushi or hot kitchen.
- Strong knife skills and steady hands.
- Basic Japanese and clear English for counter chat.
- Right to work in Japan, including SSW visa holders.
- Comfort working split shifts and weekends.
- Clean grooming and a calm manner under busy counters.
- Past sushi work is welcome but cross-trained cooks are accepted.
Benefits and Perks
- Strong monthly salary plus seasonal bonus.
- Free or subsidised staff meal once per shift.
- Uniform and laundry of chef whites supplied.
- Health insurance and pension under Japanese rules.
- Paid annual leave and weekly off day.
- Paid skills training and knife maintenance classes.
- Free Japanese language lessons for foreign staff.
- Clear path to station lead and head sushi roles.
How to Apply
Send your updated CV and a few photos of past plates through the official job listing. State your years in sushi or hot kitchen, current country, and earliest start date. The head chef replies to short-listed candidates within ten days to set up a video interview and paid trial shift.
