Lead Cook

Dal-Catering, operated by Aramark at Dalhousie University, is seeking an experienced and motivated Catering Sous Chef to join our culinary team.

The Catering Sous Chef will play an important role in supporting the day-to-day culinary operations of our catering department, helping execute high-quality food service for events ranging from campus meetings and receptions to large-scale banquets, conferences, VIP functions, and off-site catering events.

This is an excellent opportunity for a chef who enjoys a fast-paced environment, takes pride in food quality and presentation, and is comfortable working in a variety of catering settings.

Job Responsibilities

• Assist with the planning, preparation, production, and execution of catering menus.
• Lead and support culinary staff during catering events and high-volume service periods.
• Prepare and cook a wide variety of menu items while maintaining consistent quality and presentation.
• Follow standardized recipes, portion controls, production sheets, and catering specifications.
• Assist with event setup, service, breakdown, and post-event kitchen operations.
• Ensure food is prepared, held, transported, and served according to food safety standards.
• Monitor food temperatures and maintain proper food-handling procedures.
• Assist with ordering, receiving, storage, inventory control, and minimizing food waste.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen and catering work environment.
• Work closely with the Catering Manager, Executive Chef, culinary team, and event staff to ensure successful event execution.
• Provide hands-on leadership and direction to cooks and catering staff when required.
• Assist with off-site catering events, including transportation, setup, service, and breakdown.
• Help troubleshoot culinary and operational issues during events.
• Maintain a professional and positive attitude when interacting with clients, guests, and team members.
• Follow all Aramark and Dalhousie University health, safety, sanitation, and operational policies.

At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice.

Qualifications

• Previous professional cooking experience.
• Strong knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen operations.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks.
• Ability to work independently while also being an effective team leader.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food quality and presentation.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends when required by event schedules.
• Ability to work both on campus and at off-site catering locations.

This role may have physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling and/or extended walking and standing. This role may also require uniforms and/or usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Education