Event Chef de Cuisine (Catering & Banquet Events)
About the role
Full-Time | Salary: $58,000–$75,000 (based on experience)
About the Role
We are hiring an experienced Event Chef / Catering Chef / Banquet Chef to lead off-site culinary execution for high-quality, chef-driven catering and banquet events.
This role is responsible for overseeing the full event food production process-from commissary kitchen preparation through on-site setup, service, execution, and breakdown. The Event Chef de Cuisine ensures smooth, timely, and high-standard execution across all events while leading a small on-site culinary team.
The ideal candidate is highly organized, technically strong, and confident working in fast-paced environments where adaptability, leadership, and culinary judgment are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Event Production & Execution
- Lead culinary execution for all off-site catering and banquet events
- Oversee transport, setup, on-site kitchen operations, service, and breakdown
- Ensure consistent timing, quality, and presentation of all menu items
- Maintain high standards of execution in dynamic event environments
Pre-Event Planning & Coordination
- Work closely with the Executive Chef and kitchen team to prepare for events
- Assist with prep organization, batching, and staging of all menu items
- Ensure all food, equipment, and logistics are properly prepared before departure
- Anticipate on-site setup and workflow needs for each event
On-Site Leadership
- Lead and direct the on-site culinary team during event service
- Provide clear instruction and structure in real-time service conditions
- Ensure efficient workflow and execution under pressure
- Maintain a calm, solutions-focused leadership approach throughout service
Quality, Standards & Menu Execution
- Maintain consistent culinary standards across all events
- Execute chef-driven and evolving menus with precision and confidence
- Apply strong culinary knowledge to adapt dishes as required on site
- Support ongoing refinement and development of catering menus
Post-Event Responsibilities
- Oversee breakdown, cleanup, and proper return of all equipment and supplies
- Ensure commissary kitchen is reset and organized after event cycles
- Provide operational feedback to support continuous improvement
Work Environment
Fast-paced off-site catering and banquet environment requiring flexibility, strong time management, and the ability to lead small teams in real-time service conditions. Evenings and weekends required based on event schedule.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- 5+ years of professional culinary experience (restaurant, catering, banquets, or events)
- Proven leadership experience in high-pressure kitchen environments
- Strong culinary expertise with advanced technique and product knowledge
- Ability to execute and adapt dishes from concept without step-by-step recipes
- Confident leading small teams in real-time service situations
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Solid understanding of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen logistics
Must-Haves
- Experience in catering, banquets, or high-volume production kitchens
- Ability to independently lead off-site culinary execution
- Strong planning and organizational skills for event-based production
- Comfort working in fast-changing, dynamic environments
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving abstract (required for off-site event travel and equipment transport)
What We Offer
- Competitive salary ($58,000–$75,000 depending on experience)
- Opportunity to take ownership of a key leadership role
- Diverse, chef-driven event work with creative variety
- Supportive leadership team and long-term growth potential