We are looking for an experienced cook to work in our busy restaurant with a buffet setting. You will be responsible for preparing and cooking various dishes to be served in the buffet. The role entails specific duties to ensure the efficient operation of the buffet and the delivery of high-quality food.

Duties & Responsibilities
(1) Food Preparation and Production:
• Prepare a wide selection of dishes, including appetizers, main courses, sides, salads, and desserts, in large quantities to meet the demands of the buffet.
• Follow standardized recipes and portioning guidelines to ensure consistency and portion control.
• Coordinate with the buffet manager to determine the appropriate quantities of food to be prepared based on estimated guest numbers.

(2) Buffet Setup and Presentation:
• Assist in setting up and arranging the buffet, ensuring that all food stations are replenished with fresh items throughout the service period.
• Arrange and present food attractively and appealingly, taking care of garnishing and maintaining proper temperature and quality.

(3) Quality Control and Food Safety:
• Monitor food quality, ensuring all dishes are cooked properly, taste as intended, and meet food safety and hygiene standards.
• Conduct regular checks to ensure that all food items in the buffet are fresh, properly labeled, and correctly stored at the appropriate temperatures.
• Adhere to health and safety guidelines to maintain cleanliness and sanitation in the buffet area and follow all food handling protocols.

(4) Menu Flexibility and Special Requests:
• Accommodate dietary restrictions or special requests from guests, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options, by preparing alternative dishes for the buffet.
• Collaborate with the buffet manager to introduce new items or themes into the buffet, ensuring a diverse and exciting dining experience for guests.

(5) Kitchen Support and Teamwork:
• Work closely with other kitchen staff members, including sous chefs, line cooks, and dishwashers, to ensure timely preparation and efficient service during buffet hours.
• Support colleagues in kitchen tasks, including food prep, cleaning, and stocking supplies.

(6) Equipment Maintenance:
• Ensure the cleanliness and functionality of kitchen equipment, reporting any malfunctions or maintenance needs promptly to the appropriate personnel.

Employment Requirements:
• Completion of secondary school is usually required.
• Completion of a three-year apprenticeship program for cooks
or
• Completion of college or other programs in cooking
or
• Several years of commercial cooking experience are required.
• Previous experience as a cook in a similar buffet or large-scale restaurant setting is beneficial.
• Knowledge of buffet layout and arrangement strategies for optimal food presentation.
• Familiarity with cooking techniques, portion control, and food safety practices.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work well within a team.

Flexibility with working hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Monday to Friday
40 hours/week

Required languages: ENGLISH

Education level: Completion of secondary school is usually required or Completion of college or other program in cooking

Required skills: Culinary Skills, Food Safety and Hygiene, Time Management, Attention to Detail, Flexibility and Adaptability, Organization and Cleanliness, Teamwork and Communication AND Creativity

Additional skills / Assets The kitchen environment can be physically demanding, with long hours on your feet, lifting heavy pots and pans, and working in hot and sometimes stressful conditions. Physical endurance and stamina are necessary to handle the demands of the job.

Closest intersection: ST. JAMES STREET & NESS AVENUE