YW Calgary is looking for a Kitchen Services Lead to join our team! The purpose of the Kitchen Services Lead role at YW Calgary is to oversee the operations of the kitchen within the Food Services team. This role implements various aspects of kitchen operations, including menu planning and development, food preparation and cooking, food safety and sanitation, inventory management, staff training and supervision, budget management support and customer service. The Kitchen Services Leads role is to contribute to the overall success of YW Calgary's food service program by providing high-quality, nutritious meals and fostering a positive dining experience for our participants.

This position is a full-time permanent position working 37.5 hours per week. This position is not eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. The Kitchen Services Lead is working in a commercial kitchen and will be exposed to temperature fluctuations, bending, lifting, carrying etc. and will be required to stand for long periods of time.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Truly rewarding work; contribute to lasting, positive change for individuals and our community
• Flexible schedules and a hybrid work arrangement for eligible roles to help our employees manage work and life
• A supportive team environment and opportunities for professional development
• Comprehensive benefits
• Onsite fitness and childcare facilities at our YW Hub location

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

• Plan menus, select recipes, and develop new dishes
• Consider factors such as seasonality, dietary requirements, budget constraints, and participant preferences when creating menus
• Supervises and participates in food preparation and cooking activities
• Ensures that meals are prepared according to established recipes, portion sizes, and quality standards; This involves overseeing the work of other kitchen staff, assigning tasks, and providing guidance as needed
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and maintaining a clean and sanitary kitchen environment
• Implement proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices to prevent foodborne illness and ensure the safety of all food served
• Oversees inventory levels of food and kitchen supplies, monitor usage, and place orders for replenishment as needed
• Practice efficient inventory management to minimize waste and ensures that the kitchen is adequately stocked to meet demand
• Provide training and supervision to kitchen staff, providing guidance on food preparation techniques, safety procedures, and kitchen protocols
• Address feedback or complaints and strives to provide a positive dining experience for all YW participants
• Ensures that meals meet specific dietary requirements or restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or allergen-free options; This may involve modifying recipes, sourcing alternative ingredients, and communicating with participants about dietary concerns
• Work efficiently to prepare meals within specified time frames while maintaining quality and safety standards, even during emergencies or when facing staffing shortages
• Demonstrates flexibility, quick decision making and adaptability to rapidly changing circumstances, such as fluctuating ingredient availability, dietary restrictions, or unexpected emergencies
• Works with team to lead and inspire kitchen staff, volunteers, or other YW team members by fostering a culture of open communication and collaboration
• Foster communication that involves not only sharing information about menu plans, ingredient availability, and special dietary needs but also actively listening to the insights and feedback of others to optimize meal preparation and service
• Ensures compliance with YW Calgary's Health, Safety and Wellness policies and reporting incidents, promptly addressing any safety concerns with the Program Manager and OH&SW Specialist

WHAT YOU'LL BRING:

• A clear Police Information Check, including a Vulnerable Sector Search, and an Intervention Record Check is required upon commencement of employment
• Proven experience in a leadership operations role within a kitchen environment, such as Kitchen Manager, Head Chef, or similar position, preferably in a nonprofit or community-oriented setting
• Strong culinary skills and knowledge of food preparation techniques, cooking methods, and recipe development. A culinary degree or certification from a reputable culinary institute is preferred
• Certification in food safety and sanitation demonstrating a commitment to maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances, including the ability to adjust menus, recipes, and kitchen operations based on evolving needs, resources, and constraints.
• Strong problem-solving abilities with the capacity to identify issues, develop creative solutions, and implement effective strategies to overcome challenges in the kitchen
• A genuine passion for YW Calgary's mission with a commitment to advancing these goals through the kitchen services program.

If you want to change lives, we want to hear from you.
Deadline: Until Suitable Candidate Found.
Apply by submitting your resume, cover letter and salary expectations!
Check out our website for more information about YW Calgary: www.ywcalgary.ca

YW Calgary is committed to providing an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace where all employees, volunteers and clients feel valued and respected, whatever their race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, ancestry, or place of origin.