Head Chef / Culinary Manager
Kawartha Heights Retirement Living
Kawartha Heights Retirement Living is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Head Chef / Culinary Manager to join our team. This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about creating high-quality, home-style meals and delivering an exceptional dining experience for our residents.
The successful candidate will oversee all kitchen operations, including meal preparation, menu planning, ordering, budgeting, presentation, and staff supervision. We are looking for a strong leader who thrives in a team environment and takes pride in both food quality and resident satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan and develop balanced, nutritious menus tailored to a senior population
- Prepare, cook, and present home-style meals in accordance with standardized recipes and production schedules
- Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency, cleanliness, and food safety compliance
- Supervise, mentor, and support a kitchen team of approximately 4 staff
- Create and manage staff schedules to ensure appropriate coverage
- Place food and supply orders while maintaining appropriate inventory levels
- Manage vendor relationships and negotiate pricing where applicable
- Monitor and control food and labour costs to meet budget targets
- Manage inventory, including receiving deliveries and ensuring proper storage and stock rotation
- Receive and put away deliveries, including lifting and carrying items between 30–50 lbs
- Maintain high standards of customer service and build positive relationships with residents
- Ensure meals meet dietary requirements and preferences within a retirement living setting
Qualifications & Skills:
- Proven experience in quantity and batch cooking
- Strong background in breakfast cookery (including eggs), scratch soup preparation, and cooking roasts and poultry
- Experience with menu planning, ordering, and budget management (healthcare or retirement setting is an asset)
- Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities
- Strong leadership, team management, and supervisory experience
- Effective communication skills (written and verbal)
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
- Genuine interest in working with seniors and enhancing their dining experience
Certifications (Preferred):
- Red Seal Certification (Cook)
- Safe Food Handler Certification
- Smart Serve Certification
Compensation & Benefits:
- Salary: $75,000 – $80,000 per year (based on experience)
- Comprehensive benefits package included
If you are a dedicated culinary professional who enjoys leading a team and making a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors, we encourage you to apply.
Pay: $75,000.00-$80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
