Gather Catering is a made-from-scratch boutique catering company that delivers exceptional food and service for events throughout Calgary. We cater a wide variety of functions, including corporate breakfasts and lunches, cocktail receptions, weddings, private dinners, birthday celebrations, baby showers, celebrations of life, and other special events.
We are seeking an experienced, creative, and highly organized Catering & Private Chef to join our team on a full-time basis. This unique role combines private chef services for a select group of health-focused clients with kitchen production and event execution for Gather Catering.
The ideal candidate is passionate about cooking from scratch, understands specialized dietary needs, enjoys creating diverse and flavorful menus, and thrives in both structured kitchen environments and client-facing settings. This role requires equal parts culinary skill, adaptability, professionalism, and attention to detail.
Responsibilities
Private Chef & Meal Preparation
- Plan, prepare, and package weekly meals for a small group of private clients with specific nutritional goals, dietary restrictions, and food preferences.
- Develop creative, rotating menus that prioritize variety, nutrition, and exceptional flavor while adhering to client requirements.
- Adapt recipes and techniques to accommodate specialized diets, including but not limited to gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, vegan, high-protein, allergy-sensitive, and other customized meal plans.
- Maintain detailed records of client preferences, restrictions, and feedback to continuously improve menu offerings.
- Ensure meals are prepared, packaged, labelled, and delivered to the highest standards of quality and food safety.
- Source and utilize high-quality ingredients while minimizing waste and maintaining cost awareness.
- Build trust and strong professional relationships with private clients through consistency, discretion, and exceptional service.
Food Preparation & Production
- Prepare and execute menu items according to recipes, production schedules, and direction from the Head Chef and Executive Chef.
- Maintain high standards of food quality, consistency, presentation, and portion control.
- Assist with daily kitchen production, event preparation, and packing for off-site functions.
- Ensure all food products are properly stored, labelled, rotated, and handled to maintain quality and minimize waste.
- Support inventory organization and kitchen readiness for upcoming events.
Event Execution
- Assist with the setup, execution, and teardown of catered events in a variety of venues and client homes.
- Represent Gather Catering professionally while interacting with clients, vendors, and guests.
- Adapt quickly to changing event conditions while maintaining composure and attention to detail.
- Contribute to a seamless guest experience through efficient execution and teamwork.
Food Safety & Kitchen Standards
- Maintain the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and workplace cleanliness.
- Follow all food handling, preparation, storage, and transportation procedures.
- Ensure workstations, equipment, and kitchen areas remain clean, organized, and ready for service.
- Maintain professional appearance and personal hygiene standards at all times.
Teamwork & Professionalism
- Communicate effectively with kitchen and event team members to ensure successful execution of all functions.
- Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and a positive attitude in both kitchen and client-facing environments.
- Contribute to a collaborative and respectful workplace culture.
- Protect and enhance the Gather Catering brand through exceptional food, service, and hospitality.
- Assist with additional duties as required to support the success of the team and our events.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years of professional culinary experience; catering, meal prep, or private chef experience is considered a strong asset.
- Demonstrated experience working with specialized diets, food allergies, and nutrition-focused meal planning.
- Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
- Ability to create diverse, appealing menus while working within dietary guidelines and client preferences.
- Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to consistency and quality.
- Ability to adapt quickly and respond effectively in dynamic kitchen and event environments.
- Enthusiasm for food, hospitality, and continuous learning.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.
- Availability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends as required.
- Applicants must be legally eligible to work in Canada.
What We're Looking For
The successful candidate is someone who genuinely enjoys helping people achieve their health and wellness goals through food. They understand that dietary restrictions should never mean sacrificing flavor, creativity, or enjoyment. They are excited by the challenge of creating fresh, varied meals week after week while also contributing to the success of a growing catering company.
Benefits:
- Company events
- Discounted or free food
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
- Opportunities for growth and professional development
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: $24.00-$28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company events
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
