Kitchen Lead / Chef de Cuisine
New Independent Specialty Café | Lethbridge, AB
Full-Time & Part-Time
Expected Opening: Fall/Winter 2026 (subject to construction timelines)
Early Start Available: Summer/Fall 2026 for menu development and pre-opening planning
Join Us from the Beginning
We're an independently owned specialty café opening in Lethbridge in Fall/Winter 2026, built around exceptional coffee, thoughtfully crafted food and pastries, and genuine hospitality. Our vision is to become a gathering place in the community, where people can connect, gather, and slow down.
We're looking to get a head start on hiring key members of our team and are currently seeking a passionate Kitchen Lead who takes pride in their craft and are excited by the opportunity to be part of something from the very beginning. Whether you're an experienced leader or a skilled cook looking to grow, you'll play an important role in bringing our kitchen to life.
Our menu will be intentionally small and breakfast and brunch focused, allowing us to put our energy into quality over quantity. We believe great food starts with great ingredients, and we're committed to working with local producers whenever possible to create food that's fresh, seasonal, and thoughtfully prepared.
If you genuinely enjoy cooking, appreciate the details, and believe that simple food done exceptionally well is something worth striving for, we'd love to meet you.
Responsibilities
Kitchen Lead / Chef de Cuisine
- Collaborate with ownership to develop and refine the breakfast and brunch menu.
- Lead recipe testing and menu development during the pre-opening phase.
- Build kitchen systems, prep lists, and production standards.
- Source ingredients and work with local suppliers where possible.
- Hire, train, and mentor the kitchen team.
- Oversee daily kitchen operations and maintain food quality, consistency, and food costs.
- Introduce new seasonal features and menu additions throughout the year.
What We're Looking For
- Previous commercial kitchen experience (leadership experience for Head Chef applicants).
- A genuine passion for cooking and quality ingredients.
- Pride in producing consistently excellent food.
- Strong work ethic and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
- Someone who enjoys collaborating, sharing ideas, and supporting their teammates.
- Creativity and an interest in contributing seasonal dishes and features.
- A desire to continue learning and refining your craft.
- Someone looking for a long-term opportunity to grow with the business.
- Most importantly a positive attitude, and someone who enjoys what they do.
Compensation
Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of building a new specialty café from day one.
- Have meaningful input into the bakery menu and systems.
- Work directly alongside a hands-on ownership team.
- Build and lead your own department.
- Long-term growth opportunities as the business grows.
- Long term-permanent positions.
- Be a part of a local business.
To Apply
Please submit your resume along with a brief introduction. A portfolio of previous work is welcomed but not required. Let us know what your favourite coffee is.
Pay: $22.00-$30.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
