How to Get Hired as a Chef in Canada

In this article, we will be talking about how to get hired as a chef in Canada. The food industry is booming across the country. But first, you need to determine what type of cooking job is the right fit for your skills and experience.

Types of Cooking Jobs in Canada

The following are some types of cooking jobs in Canada:

1. Line Cook or Prep Cook

If you’re just starting out, consider applying for an entry-level role like a line cook, prep cook, or kitchen assistant. These jobs involve assisting more senior cooks, handling routine food preparation, and learning the basics. The pay won’t be glamorous, but you’ll gain valuable on-the-job training. Many renowned chefs got their start in these kinds of roles.

2. Sous Chef

Once you have a few years of experience, you can work your way up to sous chef. As a sous chef, you’ll oversee the line and prep cooks, and help develop menus. The pay and responsibility are greater, as you’ll be second-in-command to the executive or head chef. This is a key step toward becoming a head chef yourself.

3. Head Chef or Executive Chef

For the highest positions like head chef or executive chef, you’ll need several years of cooking experience, ideally in a supervisory role. These advanced chefs are in charge of all kitchen operations, including creating menus, scheduling staff, and ensuring high quality. Head chef jobs pay very well but also come with more responsibility. They can be challenging to land, so build your experience and make valuable industry connections.

Build Up Your Culinary Resume and Credentials

To get hired as a chef in Canada, you need to build up your credentials. This means developing your culinary resume and gaining valuable experience.

1. Gain Relevant Work Experience

The more experience you have in a professional kitchen, the better. Apply for internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level jobs to gain on-the-job experience. Work your way up from line cook to sous chef to build up your skills and responsibilities over time.

2. Earn a Culinary Degree or Certification

Some options include:

• A 2-4 year culinary arts or culinary management degree from a cooking school or college.
• A pastry certification from a recognized culinary institute to specialize as a pastry chef.
• Red Seal certification, which requires a combination of work experience and technical training. This is a nationally recognized standard in Canada.

3. Develop Your Culinary Skills

Take additional courses or get extra training in food handling, menu planning, food costing, and managing a kitchen. Stay up-to-date with trends in cooking techniques, cuisines, and presentation. Travel to experience different regional cuisines and flavors. All of this help round out your knowledge and abilities.

4. Build Your Portfolio

Create a professional website to showcase photos of your dishes, menus you have developed, awards or accolades you have received, and recommendations from previous employers or teachers. This helps sell you as a chef and gives employers insight into your style and skills.

How to apply for a cooking job in Canada

To land a chef job in Canada, the application process typically involves several key steps.

1. Research the requirements

First, determine if you need any certifications or permits to work as a chef in Canada. Many provinces require a “Red Seal” certification, which involves trade-specific training and an exam. Some restaurants may require additional certifications in food safety and handling. Make sure you understand the requirements before applying.

2. Build your resume

Focus your resume on relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments. Emphasize any culinary school or training you’ve completed. Include key skills like food preparation, sanitation, menu development, and dietary restrictions accommodation. Mention awards or recognition you’ve received. Keep your resume concise while highlighting what will make you a strong candidate.

3. Apply online or in person

Many restaurants advertise job openings on their website or on general job sites. Follow the application instructions carefully and submit any requested materials like a cover letter, resume, and references. Applying in person during off-peak hours can also be effective, as it allows you to make a good first impression. However, call ahead to check if the restaurant is accepting applications and what their preferred method is.

4. Prepare for the interview

If selected for an interview, be ready to demonstrate your cooking skills and knowledge. Review the restaurant’s menu and cuisine so you can speak to how you would prepare some of their popular dishes. Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the job, team, business goals, etc. to show your enthusiasm and professionalism. Discuss how you can contribute to improving operations or enhancing the customer experience.

5. Consider temporary or entry-level roles

Don’t overlook temporary positions like line cooks, prep cooks, or kitchen assistants. These provide valuable experience and can lead to advancement. Some restaurants hire chefs on a trial basis for a few months before offering a permanent position. Be open to these opportunities, work hard, prove yourself, and you’ll be on the path to becoming a chef in no time.

READ ALSO- How to Apply for a Canadian Work Permit

Conclusion

Following these key steps and being proactive, professional, and persistent in your search will help set you up for success in landing a chef role in Canada.