Position Summary
Scarlett Catering is looking for a hands-on, creative, and organized Catering Chef to lead food preparation and execution for our catering operations. This role is responsible for menu development, event execution, food quality, team leadership, and cost control across our Hamilton venues and catered events.
The Catering Chef will work closely with clients and internal teams to deliver high-quality food and exceptional event experiences. This person must be comfortable leading by example, supporting the team in all aspects of the operation, and maintaining high standards in food quality, presentation, safety, and service.
Key Responsibilities
Menu Development & Culinary Leadership
- Develop and execute catering menus for weddings, corporate events, barbecues, and special events
- Customize menus based on client needs, dietary requirements, seasonality, and event style
- Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation standards at all events and tastings
Event Execution & Food Production
- Oversee food preparation and service for all catering events
- Ensure recipes, portions, plating, and timelines are followed
- Provide hands-on leadership in the kitchen and during event execution
Cost Control & Operations
- Manage food and labour costs to meet budget targets
- Support event pricing through accurate forecasting of food and staffing needs.
- Monitor waste, portion control, and overall kitchen efficiency
- Review event performance and identify opportunities for improvement
Inventory & Purchasing
- Manage inventory levels and catering supplies based on event needs
- Source quality ingredients and work with approved suppliers
- Maintain proper storage, handling, and stock control practices
Food Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all food is prepared and served in compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized kitchen operations
- Support training, inspections, and food safety best practices
Team Leadership
- Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise catering kitchen staff
- Coach team members on food preparation, plating, organization, and efficiency
- Support performance management and accountability within the team
Continuous Improvement
- Look for ways to improve food quality, efficiency, and guest experience
- Support tastings, new venue launches, and special culinary projects
- Complete other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Formal culinary training; Red Seal certification is an asset
- 4–6 years of experience in catering, banquets, hotels, restaurants, or multi-venue food service
- Strong experience in high-volume and premium event catering
- Strong understanding of food cost, labour management, and kitchen operations
- Proven leadership, communication, and organizational skills
- Experience scheduling and leading kitchen teams
- Valid Food Handler certification
- Smart Serve and First Aid/CPR are required or must be obtained
- Proficient with Excel, POS, scheduling, and inventory systems
- Guest-focused, team-oriented, and committed to high standards
Working Conditions
- On-site role with work in kitchen, venue, and event environments
- Flexible hours required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Fast-paced environment with changing priorities
- Must be able to stand for long periods, lift as needed, and work indoors or outdoors
- Occasional travel to off-site events, Waterloo, and Mississauga offices
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Performance-based incentives
- Health and dental benefits
- Life insurance
- Vision care
- Employee assistance program
- Opportunity to grow with a developing company
We lead with heart, act with purpose and grow and serve people. Our service goes beyond delivering meals. As the culinary champion you foster innovation and inspire team magic. As a member of our team, you roll up your sleeves – cleaning up after service, prepping meals side-by-side, and delivering experiences with the team- demonstrating that no role is above another. We all push the broom together and we spark initiative and hospitality excellence.
We cater with heart, and lead with purpose.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $85,000.00-$95,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
