head chef

The Masthead Restaurant; Cowichan Bay; On-site; CAD 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Head Chef to lead its kitchen in a stunning waterfront setting. This role offers the opportunity to create seasonal menus using local ingredients while fostering a collaborative and respectful kitchen culture. As a hands-on leader, you will manage operations, mentor your team, and ensure high standards of cleanliness and food safety. With competitive pay starting at $70K and shared tips, plus benefits like on-site accommodation, this position is perfect for someone looking to make a meaningful impact in a tight-knit team. If you're ready for a fresh start in Cowichan Bay, we want to hear from you!

Benefits

Competitive salary + shared tips

Staff meals

Health, dental, and vision benefits

On-site accommodation

Creative input into menu and specials

Beautiful work setting

Qualifications

• 5+ years in a leadership role in a kitchen environment.
• Food Safe and Red Seal certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Leading kitchen operations during prep and service.
• Collaborating on seasonal menus and managing the kitchen team.

Skills

Culinary Technique

Leadership

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Education

AEC / DEP or Skilled Trade Certificate

Job description

Posted on April 11, 2025 by Employer details The Masthead Restaurant

Head Chef

We're Hiring!! Head Chef at The Masthead Restaurant - Cowichan Bay, BC | Full-Time | Competitive Pay + Tips | West Coast, Seasonal, Inspired Cuisine

About Us:

The Masthead is a small, independently owned waterfront restaurant in Cowichan Bay. With 40+ seats inside and a beautiful patio in summer, we focus on high-quality, seasonal West Coast cuisine, using local ingredients whenever possible. We’re a small but passionate team that values professionalism, creativity, and community. We’re looking for a hands-on Head Chef who’s not just a great cook, but also a collaborative leader. You’ll be on the line, expediting, managing service, developing menus, mentoring the team, and working closely with ownership to shape the kitchen’s culture and direction.

What You’ll Be Doing:

1. Leading kitchen operations during prep and service
2. Cooking on the line and expediting dishes
3. Collaborating on seasonal menus and nightly features
4. Managing food and supply ordering, inventory, and cost control
5. Scheduling and mentoring the kitchen team
6. Upholding high standards for cleanliness, efficiency, and food safety
7. Fostering a calm, respectful, and team-focused kitchen environment

Who We’re Looking For:

1. 5+ years in a leadership role (Sous or Head Chef level)
2. Strong culinary technique and organizational skills
3. Experience with locally inspired, West Coast cuisine
4. Calm under pressure, clear communicator, and a team player
5. Food Safe and Red Seal certifications preferred

Perks & Benefits:

1. Competitive salary (starting at $70K+) + shared tips
2. Staff meals + health/dental/vision benefits
3. Opportunity for on-site accommodation (a private 1-bedroom water-front suite under the restaurant - perfect for relocation or short-term housing)
4. Creative input into menu and specials
5. Work in a beautiful setting with a supportive and tight-knit team

Ready for a fresh start in Cowichan Bay? Please send your resume and a short note about yourself to [e-mail]. We’d love to hear about what inspires you in the kitchen and what kind of team culture you’re looking for.

Job Type:

Full-time

Pay:

From $70,000.00 per year

Additional pay:

• Tips

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• Extended health care

Schedule:

• Evening shift
• Every Weekend
• Holidays

Application question(s):

• Do you currently live in the Cowichan Bay / Duncan Area?

Education:

AEC / DEP or Skilled Trade Certificate (required)

Experience:

Kitchen Management: 5 years (required)

Cooking: 10 years (required)

Licence/Certification:

Food Safe & Red Seal Certification (required)

Work Location:

In person, Cowichan Bay, BC