Executive Chef – The Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery
Location - Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
✈ Relocation + Housing Support Provided
Salary: $82,000–$104,000 + benefits
Lead the kitchen at one of Canada’s northernmost and busiest brewpubs. This is a hands-on leadership role with real impact on our food program, team, and day-to-day operations.
Located in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, The Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery is Canada’s northernmost brewpub, with a 112-seat dining room and 50-seat seasonal patio in historic Old Town. We pair award-winning, northern-inspired beers with elevated, scratch-made gastropub food.
About the Role:
We’re seeking a working Executive Chef, a culinary leader who balances management responsibilities with hands-on cooking and team development. You’ll manage the team, develop menus, and maintain high standards across the kitchen.
You’ll be responsible for guiding the team, setting standards, and driving the kitchen forward. You won’t be tied to a station, but you should be comfortable stepping in during service when needed and leading from the front. You’ll build and lead a team you trust, allowing you to balance leadership responsibilities with involvement in service when it matters most.
This role is ideal for a chef who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and is ready to take real ownership of a kitchen while being part of a tight-knit, community-driven team.
What We Offer:
- Comprehensive extended health benefits, including dental and mental health support
- Relocation and airfare assistance from any major Canadian city
- Monthly housing subsidy and staff accommodations available
- Vehicle fuel subsidy
- Access to a private company gym
- Discounts on food, drink, and merchandise
- A stable, year-round operation with a loyal local following and strong tourism seasons
- Support and guidance transitioning to life in the North
- Opportunity to grow within a multi-faceted brewery and hospitality business
Living in Yellowknife:
Living in the North offers an incredibly rewarding lifestyle and the chance to be part of a truly outdoorsy community. We recognize that relocating can be a big step, so we’re committed to supporting our team members through the transition. Yellowknife boasts a vibrant community, a strong arts and food culture, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Our team is close-knit and welcoming, and we’re here to help with housing, local services, and getting connected to the community.
This role is part of a stable, year-round operation with a loyal local following and a vibrant tourism season. It’s an exciting opportunity for chefs seeking both professional growth and a rewarding lifestyle in Canada’s North.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead kitchen operations and mentor the culinary team, including sous chefs, line cooks, and prep staff
- Develop and execute a diverse, inspired menu that complements our craft beers
- Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and timely delivery
- Standardize recipes to maintain consistency across all dishes
- Manage inventory, order supplies effectively, and maintain food and labor cost targets
- Implement and enforce health and safety standards
- Maintain equipment and cleaning schedules
- Collaborate with FOH staff to maintain product knowledge and tastings for nightly specials
- Coordinate, assist, and/or perform in-house or off-premise events
- Collaborate with the brew team on beer and food pairings and special event menus
- Stay current with industry trends and continuously improve menu offerings
- Foster a positive and motivating work environment, leading by example
Qualifications:
- Proven experience as a Sous Chef, or Head Chef in a high-volume restaurant or brewpub setting
- Culinary degree or equivalent experience is preferred
- Strong knowledge of food and beverage pairing, particularly with craft beer
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
- Ability to work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment
- Creative and innovative approach to menu development
- Strong understanding of health and safety regulations
- Passion for the culinary arts and a commitment to excellence
- Must be comfortable rolling up your sleeves, basic maintenance skills and a can-do, make-do mindset are essential parts of life in the North
- Valid driver’s licence (required due to location)
Qualified candidates will be contacted directly.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $82,000.00-$103,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Commuter benefits
- Company events
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Discounted or free food
- Extended health care
- Housing allowance
- Life insurance
- On-site gym
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Store discount
Education:
- AEC / DEP or Skilled Trade Certificate (preferred)
Experience:
- Head Chef: 4 years (required)
- Sous Chef or Equilvalent: 5 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person
