First Cook - Hamilton Convention Centre

Carmen's Group; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A local hospitality company in Hamilton is seeking a dedicated First Cook for part-time, flexible shifts. Responsibilities include leading kitchen teams during large events, ensuring food safety, and maintaining high-quality food service. Candidates should have banquet or catering experience and possess a Safe Food Handler's Certificate. Join a team that creates unforgettable culinary experiences in an exciting environment.

Benefits

Flexible Scheduling

Career coaching & growth

Global Hotel Discounts

Wellness Programs

Qualifications

• Experience in a high volume kitchen is essential.
• Required to have excellent knife skills.
• Must possess a Safe Food Handler's Certificate.

Responsibilities

• Work under the guidance of the Executive Chef.
• Lead teams during events and ensure food quality.
• Train and supervise kitchen staff.

Skills

Experience with banquet, catering or high volume kitchen environments

Excellent knife skills

Confidence supervising and mentoring kitchen team members

Passion for food

Education

Safe Food Handler's Certificate

Culinary Trade Certification or Red Seal

Job description

Overview

Part-time, permanent, flexible scheduling

$27/hour, signing bonus available upon acceptance of an offer. Conditions apply.

Work Where Big Events and Big Careers are Happening

If you're ready to bring your culinary talent to the biggest stage in Hamilton, this is it. At the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s, you’ll be part of a culinary team that delivers show-stopping experiences for major events like the JUNO Awards, Grey Cup, Live Boxing, Car Shows, Film Shoots, and more.

Whether you’re leading a plated dinner for 1,000 or catering a celebrity-packed gala, this role puts you in the heart of high-impact hospitality. We're part of Carmen’s Group, a Canadian hospitality leader with a 40+ year legacy of creating unforgettable experiences.

Why Work for Carmens Group?

• Flexible Scheduling
• Career coaching & growth with mentorship from our Director of Culinary
• Work closely under a seasoned Executive Chef
• Great Place to Work Certified (2022-2024)
• Named Best Workplace in Canada & Hospitality/Retail
• Perks & Benefits
  • Pay on Demand
  • Global Hotel Discounts
  • Group RRSP & Health Benefits
  • Restaurant Discounts
  • Culinary Apprenticeships & Red Seal Development
  • Wellness Programs & Staff Events
  • Opportunities to Grow into Leadership Roles

What You'll Be Doing

As a First Cook, you will play a key role in bringing large scale, high energy events to life.

• Work under the guidance of our Executive Chef and Director of Culinary
• Lead line and prep teams during banquets, galas, concerts, conventions & VIP events
• Manage kitchen operations and ensure timely, high-quality food service
• Train and supervise kitchen crew, maintaining excellence in presentation and consistency
• Follow, adjust, and create recipes that meet event-specific requirements
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness, safety, and compliance with food safety standards
• Help manage inventory, food cost, and equipment care
• Thrive in fast-paced, high-volume environments with a cool head and creative edge
• Be part of a team that makes memorable moments at Hamilton’s most prestigious events

What You Bring to the Table

• Experience with banquet, catering or high volume kitchen environments
• Excellent knife skills and deep knowledge of cooking techniques
• Confidence supervising and mentoring kitchen team members
• Safe Food Handler's Certificate (Required)
• Culinary Trade Certification or Read Seal (an asset)
• A passion for food and a drive to do your best every shift
• Valid G License an asset (for off premise catering)
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and event based hours

About Carmens Group

We are Carmen’s Group—a proud Hamilton-born hospitality company with a mission to create extraordinary memories. Our venues include Carmen’s Event Centre, The C Hotel by Carmen’s, The Lakeview, fig&lemon, The Arlington Hotel, The Good Earth Winery, and of course, the Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s.

Together, we’re shaping the future of Southern Ontario’s event and culinary scene—one unforgettable experience at a time.

Are You Ready to Take the Lead?

If you're a dedicated culinary professional who thrives under pressure and wants to be part of the city’s most exciting events, this is your stage.

Apply todayand let’s create something extraordinary together.

Carmens Group makes certain there is an equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment.Carmens Group will strive to provide accommodation to persons with disabilities in the recruitment process upon request. If you are selected for an interview and you require accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please notify People & Culture upon scheduling your interview.