About the RoleTrails End Catering has built its reputation on food that genuinely moves people the kind of meal guests talk about long after the last plate is cleared. We're looking for a Catering Chef who takes that standard personally.
This is a first-line supervisory position at the heart of our catering operation. You'll be responsible for executing flawless production across events ranging from intimate gatherings of 10 to celebrations of 300+ guests and for leading the kitchen team that makes it happen. You'll own prep lists, quality control, on-site execution, and the training of incoming Prep Cooks and dish staff under your supervision. If you're the kind of cook who finds energy in a full event calendar, takes pride in beautiful food at scale, and leads by example when things get hard we want to talk to you.
What You'll DoPrepare beautiful, guest-ready food for events of 10 300+ people, maintaining the quality and consistency Trails End is known forCreate, manage, and execute detailed BOH packing and prep lists with total accuracyTrain and supervise incoming Prep Cooks and dish staff, holding the team to high standards while keeping morale strongAccommodate guest dietary needs with skill and genuine care allergies, preferences, and special requests handled with confidenceMaintain exceptional kitchen sanitation and cleanliness throughout all stages of productionCommunicate proactively and clearly with event leadership before, during, and after each eventDrive company vehicles (box truck and transport van) to events as neededRequired Qualifications2+ years of experience in food production you know how to cook at volume without cutting cornersActive, valid Driver's License with a clean driving record and current insuranceComfortable and experienced operating a box truck and large transport vanWashington State Food Handler's Permit (must be obtained within 30 days of hire)Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills you can hold a team accountable with professionalism and careProficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word and ExcelLeadership presence that holds steady under pressurePreferred QualificationsExperience in catered events weddings, receptions, large-scale private and corporate functionsFamiliarity with R365, Sling, and Toast web platformsServing, customer service, or front-of-house experienceMAST PermitServSafe Certification (not required, but we'd love it)Hours & ScheduleCatering hours flex with the event calendar. Spring and Summer are our peak seasons overtime is common and earning potential is strong. Fall and Winter shift to part-time volume (holidays excluded), with supplemental restaurant hours available year-round for those who want them.
Who Thrives HereThe best fit for this role is someone who leads from the front steady, skilled, and genuinely invested in creating something memorable for every guest who walks through the door. You don't need to be unflappable. You need to be the person your team can count on when it counts. If that sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you.