Job Description

Sushi Prep Chef / Fish Butchery Specialist

Ogawa Sushi & Kappo – Old City, Philadelphia

We are seeking an experienced sushi prep chef with at least 2 years of hands-on experience working with whole fish , including cleaning, gutting, and breakdown, to support our head chef and omakase service. This role is essential to maintaining precision and consistency in a high-end sushi environment.

The Role

This position focuses on the foundational prep work that allows service to run at the highest level.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Cleaning, gutting, and breaking down whole fish (minimum 2 years experience required)
• Bloodline removal, portioning, and proper storage
• Daily prep for omakase service
• Maintaining cleanliness and organization of the prep station
• Supporting the head chef by handling skilled but repetitive prep tasks
• Adhering to strict food safety and handling standards

This is a hands-on role that requires comfort with menial, repetitive work alongside technical skill.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years of professional experience working with whole fish
• Experience in a sushi or omakase kitchen strongly preferred
• Solid understanding of fish anatomy, handling, and breakdown
• Comfortable working behind the scenes in a support-focused role
• Calm, professional demeanor; low ego
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and efficient

Schedule & Compensation

• Schedule: Full Time (Tuesday through Saturday)
• Compensation: Competitive, based on experience
• Paid working trial required for final candidates

Interview Process

Qualified candidates will be invited to a structured interview session , which may include a small group discussion focused on technical experience, followed by individual interviews.

How to Apply

Please send:

• A brief summary of your fish and sushi experience
• Where you’ve worked and the types of fish you’ve handled

No photos or long cover letters—just relevant experience.

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