Cook 2026/27

Columbia Hospitality, Inc.; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Chicopee is seeking a Cook to join our Food and Beverage team. This role focuses on preparing high-quality meals in a fast-paced kitchen, maintaining food safety standards, and assisting with inventory and cleanliness.

The ideal candidate will be able to work independently and as part of a team, handle a busy service flow, and adhere to brand presentation guidelines while supporting event menus and large-volume service.

Qualifications

• Must have cooking experience and knowledge of food safety practices.
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced kitchen and maintain cleanliness.
• Capable of following instructions and delivering consistent food quality.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook menu items per standards.
• Maintain proper food handling, storage, and sanitation.
• Keep prep areas and equipment clean and organized.
• Label, rotate, and store food to ensure freshness and minimize waste.
• Monitor quality, presentation, seasoning, and portioning of meals.
• Participate in production and presentation for brand consistency.
• Complete daily logs and checklists as required.
• Assist in other departments as needed.

Skills

Cooking experience

Food safety

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Time management

Communication skills

Physical stamina

Bilingualism (asset)

Food presentation

Job description

Position Title: Cook

Department: Food and Beverage

Reports to: Supervisor, Food and Beverage or designate

Our Mission: Offer unique and memorable experiences through fun-filled programs, activities and events

Job Summary: Cooks at Chicopee play a critical role in preparing high-quality food in a fast-paced kitchen environment. This individual will be responsible for food production, cleanliness, storage, and ensuring all food safety protocols are followed. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a team setting and takes pride in delivering consistent and well-presented meals.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Prepare and cook menu items in accordance with Chicopee’s food service standards


• Ensure proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices are maintained at all times


• Maintain cleanliness in all food prep, refrigeration, and storage areas


• Ensure proper labeling, rotation, and storage of all food items to maintain freshness and minimize waste


• Consistently monitor the quality, presentation, seasoning, and portioning of food served


• Actively participate in the production and presentation of all food items to uphold brand quality and consistency


• Complete daily log sheets and checklists accurately as required


• Keep kitchen and prep stations clean throughout shifts; clean spills immediately and sanitize equipment daily


• Support inventory management and ensure refrigerators and storerooms are organized and fully stocked


• Follow Safe Food Handling standards as per Ontario Regulation 493


• Maintain communication with the Food & Beverage team to support special event menus and large-volume service


• Attend mandatory pre-season and corporate training sessions


• Assist in other departments or areas of operations as needed

Key Qualifications:

• Previous cooking experience is an asset


• Sound understanding of food safety, hygiene, and sanitation procedures


• Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team


• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to follow verbal and written instructions


• Comfortable working in fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environments


• Physically capable of lifting up to 45 lbs (20.4 kg) and performing repetitive physical tasks


• Strong time management and communication skills


• Ability to work in hot, humid, or outdoor environments as required


• Takes pride in food quality and presentation


• Safe Food Handling Certificate (REG 493) and/or Smart Serve certification is an asset


• Bilingualism is an asset


• Previous experience cooking is an asset.


• Knowledge of proper sanitation procedures and food safety guidelines.

Additional Requirements:

• Passionate about the recreation, hospitality, or food and beverage industry


• Approachable, empathetic, and customer-focused


• Must be flexible with scheduling - including evenings, weekends, holidays, and shift coverage


• Must provide your own uniform in compliance with Chicopee’s uniform policy


• You have, or can use our Human Resource platform to obtain, the following certificates: WHMIS; Ladder Safety; Ontario Health & Safety Awareness (OHSA); Workplace Violence & Harassment (Bill 168 & 132); Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA); IASR: Information and Communications Standards and Employment Standards; Understanding Human Rights; Safe Lifting; Gender and Sexual Diversity; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB); Safe Food Handling (for Food and Beverage Employees) Training