Reports To
Manager of Culture and Recreation
Saulteau First Nations Mission
We, the Saulteau First Nations, are a spirited and diverse community. We are a strong Self-Governed Nation, one that is healthy, culturally vibrant, and ready for tomorrow. Our cultural teachings and traditions guide us and keep us rooted as we move forward into the future. As stewards of the land, we ensure that the best sustainable practices are followed, now and in the future. For as long as the “sun shines, the grass grows and the rivers flow”, we remain proud and humbly determined.
Overview
The Kitchen Manager / Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations at the Saulteau First Nations Culture and Recreation Centre. This position leads the planning, preparation, and coordination of daily internal catering, a daily take-out or dine-in lunch service for community members. They also oversee the catering rotation list for evening or weekend catering associated with programs, rentals, and special events.
This role ensures food services are high-quality, efficient, culturally relevant, and compliant with all health and safety standards while providing leadership and support to all kitchen staff and contracted caterers.
Duties and Responsibilities
Daily Kitchen Operations and Meal Preparation
- Plan, prepare, and oversee meals for internal organizational programs, meetings, and events during regular business hours.
- Develop and maintain a rotating lunch menu for daily public pick-up.
- Ensure food is nutritious, culturally appropriate, and meets dietary needs as required.
- Maintain consistent portion control, presentation, and service standards.
Catering and Event Coordination
- Coordinate and oversee the catering rotation list for internal daytime events.
- Supervise and coordinate catering support for evening programs, weekend events, and facility rentals.
- Ensure consistency in food quality, safety, and service across all catering activities.
Inventory, Food Safety, and Compliance
- Order and manage food, kitchen supplies, and equipment inventory.
- Ensure proper food handling, storage, cleanliness, and sanitation practices at all times.
- Maintain compliance with all applicable health, safety, and food service regulations.
Staff Supervision and Scheduling
- Schedule, train, and support part-time or casual kitchen staff, including cooks and dishwashers.
- Provide guidance, mentorship, and on-the-job training in food preparation, kitchen safety, and service standards.
Administration and Reporting
- Monitor food costs, meal sales, and kitchen-related expenses.
- Track meal volumes and staffing schedules.
- Prepare and submit reports as required by the Manager of Culture and Recreation.
Other
- Perform other related duties as required to support Culture and Recreation Centre operations.
Ideal Qualifications and Experience
- Minimum three years of experience in cooking, catering, or kitchen management.
- Experience supervising staff in a commercial or community kitchen setting
- Certificate, Diploma, or Red Seal from a recognized culinary school in Canada is an asset
- Knowledge of Indigenous food practices and community-based programming is a strong asset
Ideal Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Food Safe Level 1 certification
- Strong understanding of food safety standards and kitchen operations
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
- Ability to lead and support a diverse team in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods
- Valid driver’s licence and access to a reliable vehicle for work-related duties
- Ability to obtain and maintain a satisfactory criminal record check, including the vulnerable sector
Work Conditions
- Fast-paced kitchen environment with frequent deadlines
- Flexibility required for some evenings and weekends
- Supportive, team-oriented community workplace
- Manual dexterity required to use kitchen equipment and standard office technology.
- Wage Range: $32.58-$37.46
