Kitchen Assistant (Full-Time)

Canada; Toronto; On-site; CAD 34,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & wellness benefits

Paid vacation time

Discounted ballet classes

Staff meal per shift

Job summary

Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) is seeking a Kitchen Assistant to join a collaborative food services team in a purpose‑driven school environment. You will support food preparation, café item production, and meal service while prioritizing safety and cleanliness.

Responsibilities include receiving deliveries, maintaining sanitation, and ensuring menus are served in line with guidelines. A valid Food Handler Certificate and weekend availability are required to succeed in this role.

Qualifications

• Experience in a food services role in a professional or institutional kitchen.
• Knowledge of food service practices and procedures.
• A valid Food Handler Certificate is required; Smart Serve certification is an asset.
• WHMIS knowledge and strong sanitation practices are expected.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail are essential.
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced school environment with children.
• Weekend availability is required.

Responsibilities

• Support kitchen production and food preparation for meals, salads, snacks, catering, and dietary needs.
• Prepare sandwiches, salads, and grab-and-go café items.
• Assist with meal service and portioning for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Serve café and dining patrons and communicate daily menu offerings.
• Receive deliveries, store supplies, and support kitchen cleaning activities.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of work areas and follow safety guidelines.
• Follow school HACCP and municipal policies for food handling.

Skills

Food service experience

Food service practices

WHMIS knowledge

Sanitation and cleanliness

Strong organizational skills

Interpersonal with students

Weekend availability

Tools

Food handler certificate

Job description

Are you passionate about dance and looking to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant and collaborative environment? Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) is excited to invite applications for the full-time, permanent position of Kitchen Assistant. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic team that supports the transformative power of dance across all ages and abilities.

About Us:

Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) is a leading arts and education institution dedicated to excellence in dance training, community programming, and health initiatives. NBS has 300+ employees supporting programs ranging from professional ballet training, community engagement, and groundbreaking health initiatives. NBS foster a collaborative, creative environment rooted in inclusion and continuous growth.

The Role:

Under the leadership of the Chef de Cuisine, the Kitchen Assistant will provide assistance to the Chef and Cooks as required by clearing and cleaning dishes, helping with food preparation and service, and helping the children and staff as required.

Why You’ll Love This Role:

• You’ll contribute to a welcoming dining experience for students, staff, and café patrons
• You’ll work alongside a collaborative food services team in a purpose-driven school environment
• You’ll build your food service skills through hands‑on kitchen and café experience
• You’ll play an important role in keeping kitchen operations safe, clean, and running smoothly

What You’ll Do:

• Support Food Preparation: Assist with kitchen production and food preparation for meals, salads, snacks, catering, and special or restricted dietary requirements.
• Prepare Café Items: Prepare sandwiches, salads, and grab-and-go items for the café.
• Assist with Meal Service: Assemble portions for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as needed, including items such as cereal, juice, fruit, bowls, sugar, and crackers.
• Serve Café and Dining Patrons: Communicate daily menu offerings and serve portions according to established guidelines at Mona Campbell Square Café and/or Currie Hall.
• Receive and Organize Deliveries: Help receive deliveries, put supplies away, and support kitchen cleaning activities.
• Maintain Cleanliness and Sanitation: Keep work areas and kitchen spaces clean, sanitized, and tidy; store excess food appropriately, clear waste, and follow cleanliness and sanitation instructions.
• Follow Food Safety Standards: Follow School, HACCP, and municipal food-handling policies, standards, and guidelines when preparing and handling food and leftovers.
• Contribute to the Team: Perform other duties as assigned to support the Food Services Department and its objectives.

What You Bring:

• Experience in a food services role in a professional or institutional kitchen
• Knowledge of food service practices and procedures
• A valid Food Handler Certificate is required; Smart Serve certification is an asset
• A good understanding of sanitation and cleanliness, including knowledge of WHMIS
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Strong interpersonal skills and comfort working with school-aged children
• Availability to work weekends

Compensation

Salary: $34,000 annually

Total Rewards

• Health & Wellness Benefits: Dental, Health, Paramedical, Short & Long Term Disability, Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program
• Employer-matched Defined Contribution Pension Plan
• Paid Vacation Time
• Commitment to Work-Life Balance
• Development & Learning Opportunities
• Discounted rates for Adult Ballet Classes at Canada’s National Ballet School
• Discounted rates for all programs and items at our retail outlet
• Complimentary staff meal per shift, plus discounted café snacks and beverages
• Collaborative and Inclusive work environment: Join our EDI Committee or Social Committee and participate in our fun employee events!

Our Commitment to Equity & Accessibility

NBS is committed to addressing systemic inequities in every facet of our organization including programs, policies and practices. It is NBS’ top priority to build a remarkable and talented workforce that reflects the diversity of the City of Toronto. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified individuals, especially welcoming those with diverse intersectional identities who bring unique perspectives and contribute to the diversification of ideas.

If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please inform us.

Successful candidates must supply Canada’s National Ballet School with a Police Reference Check in accordance with the School’s Child Abuse/Sexual Abuse Prevention Policy; this will be coordinated through the Human Resources Department at NBS