Event Chef

BLUE PLATE CATERING LTD • Chicago, IL

125d

About The Position

Are you passionate about crafting exceptional dishes that elevate events to unforgettable experiences? Do you thrive in the fast-paced energy of Chicago’s catering scene, where precision and teamwork turn every event into something special? If so, then Blue Plate is where you belong! Position Summary: At Blue Plate, a staple in Chicago's catering industry, we specialize in crafting extraordinary culinary experiences that leave a lasting impression on our guests. As an Event Chef, by preparing and overseeing high-quality dishes for off-premises events. Your leadership and expertise will ensure seamless execution, from food preparation to final plating, maintaining the highest standards of quality, presentation, and service.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Must possess strong culinary skills or advanced cooking and production techniques applicable to off-site functions.
• Minimum of 6 years of successful experience in the hospitality industry, preferably in catering or hotel food service.
• Proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) is required.
• Commitment to Blue Plate’s mission by demonstrating a strong affinity for it— to “care more” for others through food and service experiences that turn our partners’ vision into reality.
• Ability to identify, address, and resolve challenges in real-time while escalating issues to leadership when necessary.
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize, multitask, and manage time effectively in a high-pressure setting.
• Dedication to quality by maintaining impeccable service and food preparation standards.
• Solid foundational food knowledge, including proper handling, preparation techniques, and food safety practices.
• Consistently uphold Blue Plate’s quality and service standards while maintaining a positive attitude when interacting with clients, guests, and fellow team members.

Nice To Haves

• Culinary Arts degree or advanced culinary certification is preferred.
• Completion of City of Chicago Department of Public Health Certified Food Service Manager certification preferred, or ability to complete the certification within 90 days after date of hire.
• Bilingual skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Arrive Ready: Show up on time and sign in at your scheduled arrival time, dressed in accordance with our Back of House Dress Code Policy, and prepared to lead high-volume food production with precision.
• Get Your Assignment: Check in with the Event Supervisor to confirm event details, timing, menu specifications, and any special dietary considerations.
• Lead the Team: Check in kitchen staff, assign tasks, and ensure all personnel are properly dressed and equipped for service.
• Master the Menu and Flow: Lead a pre-shift meeting, with the Event Supervisor, to review the menu, service style, kitchen flow, and any special guest considerations, ensuring seamless execution.
• Set Up for Success: Direct kitchen setup and organize supplies efficiently to support seamless food production.
• Oversee Food Production: Supervise food preparation, ensuring consistency, quality, and adherence to Blue Plate’s high culinary standards.
• Coordinate Service: Work closely with the Event Supervisor to manage plating style, service timing, and any special requests.
• Practice Safe Food Handling: Ensure all food safety regulations and proper storage procedures are followed to maintain the highest level of cleanliness and compliance.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Supervise kitchen breakdown and cleaning, ensuring proper labeling and storage of leftovers.
• Coach and Lead: Hold kitchen staff accountable to all standard operating procedures and provide guidance as needed.
• Manage Staffing and Budget: Monitor staffing levels to ensure efficient labor use while maintaining service quality and adhering to event budgets.
• Monitor Timing and Attendance: Release staff as duties are completed, ensuring accurate sign in/out times without rounding.
• Complete Event Documentation: Fill out event summaries, performance notes, and any necessary paperwork, submitting them to management at the end of each shift.
• Support the Production Kitchen: Assist in kitchen production as needed based on business demands.
• Engage in Team Development: Participate in hiring, training, performance reviews, and corrective action when necessary.
• Attend Meetings and Site Visits: Be present at department meetings and event site visits for planning purposes as required.
• Sign Out: Complete your shift by signing out at your scheduled departure time.
• Perform other relevant tasks as assigned by management to support event success.

Benefits

• Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k)-retirement plan, and paid time off (PTO) with sick leave.
• Additional perks such as commuter benefits, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), free meals, and pet insurance options ensure our team feels valued.
• We also offer wellness rewards, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and resources to help you thrive in work and life.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees