Banquet Chef

Job Title: Banquet ChefLocation: Cooperstown, NYSalary: $70,000 – $85,000 (Based on experience)Type: Full-TimeHousing Benefit: Up to 2 months rent-free employee housing available while relocatingOverviewThe Banquet Chef is responsible for overseeing all culinary operations for banquets, weddings, and planned events, serving high-volume functions throughout the year and peak summer season. This role acts as the kitchen leader in the absence of the Executive Sous Chef and plays a critical role in food quality, execution, sanitation, staffing coordination, and event readiness.The Banquet Chef supports events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale functions of up to 50+ catering staff, working closely with Food & Beverage leadership, the Executive Chef, and external partners including the Baseball Hall of Fame and local museums.This is a hands-on leadership role for a chef who thrives in high-volume, high-visibility environments.Key ResponsibilitiesCulinary Operations & Event ExecutionLead all culinary operations for banquets, weddings, and planned eventsEnsure banquet kitchens are fully prepared and service-ready for each eventBrief banquet kitchen staff daily on upcoming and current functionsExecute and oversee preparation of all hot food items while supervising garde manger and cold food productionSupervise and produce visually appealing buffet and event displaysEnsure food meets all quality, quantity, and presentation standardsVerify all food is prepared to proper specifications and timelinesLeadership & Team ManagementAct as kitchen manager in the absence of the Executive Sous ChefBuild team morale through training, leadership, and positive feedbackDelegate tasks effectively and support staff during high-volume serviceControl kitchen labor hours, minimize overtime, and enforce scheduled shiftsSupport staffing needs during peak summer season (up to 6 days per week)Planning, Inventory & Cost ControlAssist with monthly inventory countsMonitor portion control, waste reduction, and food cost managementReceive, inspect, and ensure proper storage of food and suppliesReview and update recipes; develop seasonal and specialty menu itemsCollaborate with the Executive Chef on banquet menu development and executionSanitation, Safety & ComplianceMaintain all sanitation, health, and safety standards in work areasEnsure compliance with NY Health Department codes and internal standardsPractice and enforce safe food handling, preparation, and cooking proceduresExecute end-of-day kitchen closing proceduresEnsure all banquet kitchen equipment and refrigeration is operationalMaintain personal and professional grooming and cleanliness standardsImplement and enforce workplace safety proceduresCommunication & CoordinationAttend morning BEO meetings and execute event instructions accordinglyCommunicate effectively with all Food & Beverage outletsPartner with leadership to ensure smooth execution of events tied to museums, cultural institutions, and major attractionsQualificationsPrior Banquet Chef or high-volume culinary leadership experience requiredStrong culinary execution skills with a focus on consistency and presentationExperience managing large catering teams (up to 50 staff during peak events)Proven ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environmentsCertification in sanitation and workplace safety preferredAbility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays (required)Strong planning, organization, and communication skillsBenefits & PerksCore BenefitsFree health and vision insurance (employee)Dental coverage401(k)FSAProfit-sharing pension plan (10% of annual income, vested after 3 years)Free term life insurance (1x annual salary)Employee Assistance ProgramOptional Teledoc coverage ($10/month – family included)Time Off & Lifestyle13 paid holidays (including birthday)Vacation:80 hours (Years 1–4)120 hours (Years 5–9)160 hours (Year 10+)56 hours sick time annuallyFree hot meals while workingFree gym membership25% Retail, restaurant, spa, and golf discountsFriends & family room discountsEducational Support ProgramAfter one year of full-time employment:Student Loan Repayment$500 per quarter after Year 1$750 per quarter after Year 2Education Sponsorship50% reimbursement for approved industry-related educationUp to $5,000 per calendar yearOne-year post-completion employment commitment requiredInterested Candidates – Apply TodayPlease submit:ResumeSalary expectationsAvailability and at least one professional reference