The posting
Join our kitchen team as a Commis Chef and help deliver exceptional dining experiences in a fast-paced culinary environment. You'll work on food preparation, dish assembly, and maintaining our high standards while contributing to smooth service operations.
Be part of the opening team of an elegant Fine Dining Restaurant / French Bistro, led by a Michelin-starred Culinary Director.
Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps in Nagano Prefecture, at the foot of one of Japan's most renowned ski resorts, the restaurant will offer a refined dining experience in an exceptional natural setting.
Set within two distinctive boutique hotels, this unique project combines refined hospitality, exceptional cuisine, and an outstanding natural environment.
Location: Hotel La Neige, Hakuba
Employment Type: Full-time, Seasonal
Work Hours: Avg of 40 hours per week
Reports to: Head Chef
Must Have
- Legal right to live and work in Japan (typically via a Working Holiday Visa)
- Previous experience working as a commis chef or line chef
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to commit to the full winter season (December 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027)
What We Look For
- Professional working proficiency in English and/or Japanese
- Willingness to work flexible hours and holidays
- Ability to handle a fast-paced and dynamic environment
Nice to Have
- Japanese driving license or International Driving Permit
- Fluent English is essential; Japanese is preferred; French language skills are a bonus
- Previous experience in Michelin-starred restaurants and/or high-quality bistro operations
- A love for nature, snow, and creating great guest experiences
- Team player and adaptable to new environments
Commis Chef Duties
- Section Ownership: Take full ownership of a designated station (e.g. grill, sauce, larder, pastry), managing all output and maintaining station readiness throughout every service.
- Food Preparation: Prepare, portion, and assemble dishes to exact recipe specifications, ensuring consistency in taste, temperature, and presentation across every plate.
- Cooking Techniques: Execute a broad range of cooking techniques - including grilling, sautéing, braising, and frying - with precision and confidence at all times.
- Service Efficiency: Ensure timely delivery of dishes during peak service, anticipating demand and maintaining a well-stocked mise en place to prevent delays.
- Order Accuracy: Follow ticket orders accurately, accounting for allergen requirements, dietary restrictions, and special requests in line with kitchen standards.
- Food Safety & Hygiene: adhere strictly to food hygiene and safety regulations, including HACCP procedures, correct food storage, temperature checks, and FIFO stock rotation.
- Team Player: Work with the brigade to support colleagues across sections and contribute to a positive, motivated kitchen environment.
- Kitchen Communication: Liaise effectively with the wider kitchen team, flagging stock shortages or equipment issues to the sous chef and contributing to a positive, well-coordinated kitchen environment.
Commis Chef Shift
Commis Chefs are expected to work at least 40 hours per week in flexible shifts that can cover breakfast, lunch or dinner. Most kitchens operate between 7am and 10pm.
HHG provides accommodation in central Hakuba (mainly in Happo, Wadano, and Kamishiro areas). Options include shared, dormitory, or private rooms depending on your role.
Work Location
This position will be based at one of two restaurant venues located within walking distance of each other in the Wadano area of Hakuba, Nagano.
- SÈVE – An elegant French fine dining restaurant located within Hotel La Neige, Hakuba Hospitality Group's flagship luxury property.
- Bistro – A French bistro located within our Nishikan Hotel.
Accommodation
HHG provides staff accommodation in central Hakuba (mainly in Happo Village, Wadano, and Kamishiro). Options include shared or private rooms depending on your role.
Perks
Competitive hourly rate and eligibility for an end-of-season bonus
Housing Support
Subsidized shared housing in Hakuba, and staff shuttle services
Work Life Balance
Variety of shift patterns and proximity to resorts
Eat & Drink
Discounts at HHG outlets



