Chef De Cuisine / Kitchen Lead

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Chef de Cuisine / Kitchen Lead

Hoco Hotels is seeking a hands-on Chef de Cuisine / Kitchen Lead to shape and lead kitchen operations for our new elegantly refined dining room and lounge at The Windsor Hotel.

This is a working leadership role within a contemporary Italian and Mediterranean concept defined by simplicity, premium ingredients, and disciplined execution. The space is intimate, design-forward, and built around a polished yet approachable guest experience.

Position Overview

Reporting directly to ownership, the Chef de Cuisine / Kitchen Lead will oversee daily kitchen operations and lead service in a modern Italian menu centered on artisanal pasta, traditional classics, and refined small plates.

We are building a tight, well-structured kitchen environment where standards, consistency, and thoughtful sourcing are paramount. This role requires a confident operator comfortable establishing systems, mentoring a small team, and maintaining composure during service.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute daily service

• Develop and maintain standardized recipes and prep systems

• Oversee food cost control and portion accuracy

• Train, mentor, and schedule kitchen staff

• Maintain health and safety compliance

• Monitor inventory and minimize waste

• Collaborate with ownership as the concept grows

Qualifications

• Minimum 4–5 years of back-of-house experience

• At least 1–2 years in a leadership role (Sous Chef, Senior Line Cook, or equivalent)

• Proven experience leading service in a quality-driven environment

• Strong understanding of classic Italian technique and pasta execution

• Experience managing food cost and operational systems

• Organized, disciplined, and calm under pressure

• Able to work full-time with flexible availability (days, evenings, weekends, and holidays)

• Must be legally authorized to work in Canada

Culinary education is considered an asset but not required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

• Comfortable operating commercial kitchen equipment

Compensation & Benefits

• $52,000–$55,000 annual salary (based on experience)

• Eligible for performance-based bonus

• Participation in tip pool program

• Annual retention bonus opportunity after 12 months of successful employment

• Two weeks paid vacation

• Staff dining and hotel-related perks

• Opportunity for advancement as the concept evolves

Full-time position averaging approximately 37.5 to 42 hours per week based on season.

Pay: $52,000.00-$55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• Paid time off

Experience:

• Cooking: 5 years (required)
• Italian cuisine: 2 years (preferred)
• Leadership: 2 years (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• Food Handler Certification (required)
• WHMIS Certification (preferred)
• Food Safety Certification (preferred)

Location:

• Stratford, ON N5A 3K2 (preferred)

Work Location: In person