The Chef/Senior Cook (Kitchen Lead) is the primary culinary lead for the lodge restaurant and is responsible for overseeing all day-to-day kitchen operations. This role is hands-on and requires strong organization, leadership, and adaptability to support a lodge environment where meal service may include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and special events. The Senior Cook ensures consistent food quality, safe food handling, efficient service, and a positive experience for both guests and staff.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Leadership & Operations
Act as the lead cook and on-site kitchen supervisor
Coordinate daily kitchen workflow across all meal periods
Assign prep, cooking, and cleaning duties to kitchen staff
Train and support cooks, kitchen helpers, and seasonal staff
Communicate daily needs, challenges, and staffing requirements to lodge management
Food Preparation & Service
Prepare, cook, and plate lodge menu items according to established standards
Oversee multiple meal services (breakfast, lunch, dinner, packed lunches, and special events)
Ensure portion control, consistent quality, and timely service
Assist with menu planning, daily features, and seasonal adjustments based on guest volumes
Lodge-Specific Responsibilities
Adapt menus and prep plans to fluctuating occupancy and guest schedules
Prepare group meals, family-style service, or buffet-style offerings when required
Support special dietary requests and allergies with care and accuracy
Maintain flexibility for last-minute guest needs common in lodge settings
Food Safety, Sanitation & Cleanliness
Ensure compliance with all food safety, HACCP, and local health regulations
Oversee food storage, labeling, dating, and FIFO practices
Maintain a clean, organized kitchen and storage areas at all times
Ensure opening, closing, and deep-cleaning procedures are completed
Inventory, Ordering & Cost Awareness
Monitor inventory levels and communicate ordering needs to management
Assist with receiving and inspecting deliveries
Minimize waste through effective prep planning and portion control
Support cost-conscious menu execution without sacrificing quality
Equipment, Safety & Maintenance
Ensure safe operation and daily care of kitchen equipment
Identify and report maintenance or safety concerns promptly
Follow and enforce workplace health and safety standards
Qualifications & Experience
3-5+ years of professional cooking experience, preferably in a lodge or restaurant setting
Experience working independently as the senior kitchen lead
Strong understanding of multi-meal service and fluctuating guest volumes
Solid knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
Food Handler Certification required (or ability to obtain)
Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills
Ability to remain flexible, calm, and solution-oriented in a dynamic lodge environment
Physical & Environmental Requirements
Ability to stand for extended periods
Ability to lift up to 40-50 lbs
Comfortable working in a hot kitchen and rural or remote lodge setting
Schedule
Flexible availability including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Casual
Pay: $20.00-$32.00 per hour
Expected hours: 20 - 44 per week
Benefits:
Dental care
Employee assistance program
Extended health care
Life insurance
On-site parking
Licence/Certification:
Culinary Certificate or working towards (preferred)
Work Location: In person
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