Job Overview
We are looking for a motivated, organized, and hands-on Head Chef / Working Chef to lead our kitchen, oversee food production, mentor the culinary team, and help build efficient systems that support the continued growth of our catering company. The ideal candidate leads by example, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and takes pride in delivering exceptional food and outstanding event execution.
Position Overview
This is a leadership role responsible for overseeing kitchen production, food quality, event execution, inventory management, food cost control, and kitchen staff coordination.
The ideal candidate is a strong cook and organized operator who can manage multiple events, work under deadlines, lead a team, and help improve systems and efficiency within the kitchen.
This position requires someone who thrives in a fast-paced catering environment and can balance creativity with operational discipline.
Responsibilities Kitchen & Event Operations
- Lead kitchen operations for catered events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale events of 1,000+ guests
- Prepare and execute high-quality breakfast, lunch, dinner, hors d’oeuvres, and buffet menus
- Assist with baking and dessert production as needed
- Coordinate prep schedules and production timelines for multiple simultaneous events
- Ensure food is prepared, packed, and delivered accurately and on time
- Assist with mobile kitchen and off-site catering operations
Leadership & Team Management
- Supervise and delegate tasks to kitchen staff and prep teams
- Maintain a professional, positive, and solutions-focused work environment
- Help train and develop kitchen staff
- Communicate effectively with event sales staff and management teams
- Support smooth event execution through teamwork and accountability
Inventory, Ordering & Food Cost
- Plan menus and assist with recipe development
- Order food, supplies, and kitchen inventory responsibly
- Monitor food cost, portioning, and waste reduction
- Maintain organized inventory systems and storage practices
- Assist with recipe costing and operational systems using kitchen software platforms
Kitchen Standards & Organization
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment
- Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards
- Assist with equipment care and operational maintenance
- Help maintain overall kitchen cleanliness and organization during and after events
Qualifications
- Previous experience as a chef in catering, banquet, restaurant, or event-based food service
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
- Experience leading kitchen staff and delegating responsibilities
- Ability to work independently while maintaining strong communication with management
- Experience with large-scale food production preferred
- Comfortable working long hours during peak event periods
- Valid driver’s license with good driving record
- Professional, reliable, and dependable under pressure
- Experience with inventory systems, recipe costing, or kitchen management software is a plus
- Willingness to learn and adapt to operational systems such as Galley and Caterease
Compensation & Benefits
- Full-Time Position
- Competitive hourly pay based on experience
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Flexible scheduling during slower seasons
- Opportunity for long-term leadership growth within the company
Ideal Candidate
This role is ideal for someone who wants more than “just a cooking job.” We are looking for a leader who wants to help build and improve a growing catering operation while maintaining high food quality and strong kitchen culture.
If you are passionate about food, organized under pressure, and excited about helping scale a respected catering company, we would love to hear from you.
Job Detail
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CitySouth Salt Lake