Lead Onsite Chef

Austin, TX, United States

Overview

Launched in 2014, Contigo Catering grew out of roots in the Contigo family ranch in Fredericksburg and Contigo Restaurant in Austin. Now our own independent company responding to rapid growth and high demand, we are a leader in custom catering in Central Texas. From backyard gatherings to large corporate banquets, Contigo Catering has the know-how to turn any special day into a memorable celebration... served with a slice of Texas hospitality. Our events are noteworthy for their custom crafted menus, exceptional hospitality, eye for style, seamless coordination, unique bar service, and a special catalog of package additions.

Reporting to the Onsite Event Manager and working closely with the rest of the onsite Contigo Catering event team, this role is similar to that of a server or a bartender at a restaurant, but with a constantly changing environment. They help execute event details to ensure that each event is executed smoothly, and that every client, venue, and vendor leaves with a positive impression of Contigo Catering. As such, the ideal candidate is outgoing and high energy, adept at keeping track of multiple simultaneous priorities and communicating proactively with each team member, and is capable of having fun while maintaining a high standard of accountability at every stage of our process. We are a small, tightly knit team that enjoys good food and values good people. We are seeking candidates with long-term potential who will feel comfortable growing with us.

Location

Our office, kitchen, and warehouse are located in Southeast Austin at 3709 Promontory Point Drive, Suite B201, Austin Texas 78744, but this role works almost entirely on-site at our client events. As such, this role involves travel to and presence at various event spaces throughout and around Austin, particularly downtown, Westlake, and Dripping Springs. Reliable transportation is required. Occasionally, travel to event locations such as Marfa is required, and team support for transport is provided.

Schedule

Part-time, non-exempt position; exact hours vary based on event schedules. Hours fluctuate heavily based on season. Weeknight and weekend availability is definitely required.

Scheduling is done through a scheduling app that allows event staff to accept or reject shift requests based on availability.

Compensation

Base pay of $29- $31 per hour, commensurate with experience.

Day-to-Day Ownership

This is an opportunity to impact and elevate the entire company and individual lives on a daily basis. The Onsite Event Staff's day-to-day will reflect the specifics of each event and involves being on your feet to attend to the needs of our catering clients, but duties can generally be designated within and held accountable to the following:

>Pre-shift meeting: Day before event meeting at kitchen or virtual meeting with Executive Sous chef to discuss the event. Assign kitchen staff to duties.

> Set Up : Meet with the Event Manager to establish a kitchen area set and discuss food service items on timeline. Every event starts with helping unload the catering truck with the rest of the team. Unloading and setting up the onsite kitchen is a part of every shift.

> Kitchen Pre-shift: Meet with all kitchen staff go over timeline. Go over assignments and Serving style. Go over Dietiritiary restrictions, brief overview of menus items, VIP guests and Contigo expectations.

> Food Service: Setup & organize kitchen and any applicable serving areas in an organized and presentable manner, keeping in mind that the kitchen should always be presentable should a client walk through. Take instruction from the Lead Chef to prepare and execute service. All food is expected to be beautifully presented as well as safely served and stored in compliance with all food safety regulations.

> Check In: Check with each member of the kitchen to ensure they have details related to their assigned task. Make adjustments to workload needed. Go over how dishes will be presented and garnished. Make notes of areas of improvements that are needed to go add to post event notes.

> General Requirements: Kitchen staff should come to their shift prepared with at least one knife and the proper uniform. Contigo Catering's kitchens operate similar to a pop-up in that we do the cooking for each event onsite. Kitchen staff duties may include cooking proteins, chopping, setting up mise stations, plating, mixing, etc. It is the Lead Chefs responsibility to enforce the dress code.

Outcomes

A successful candidate in this role embodies the following:

Each and every one of our clients and their guests is satisfied. You provided exceptional service that they remark upon in the wake of the event. You represented Contigo Catering well, keeping it in mind with everything you do (attire, language, details, clean-up, etc.).

You are a versatile Leader, communicating and assisting proactively. You adapt to the changing environments and needs while contributing to team cohesion and ensuring the highest quality standards are maintained. The team enjoys being around you and you don't hesitate to do the dirty work when it needs to be done.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate has:

3+ years of food experience (restaurant, hotel, catering, etc.).

3+ years management in a kitchen setting.

Exceptional organization, communication, and interpersonal skills; a knack for keeping multiple tasks in mind and a track record of positive team experiences.

Passion for good food and drink, events that inspire, and a volition to provide Texas style hospitality every step of the way.

Ability to integrate into the culture of Contigo Catering, and be a steward for this company no matter where you are.

Physical Requirements

Ability to safely lift up to 50 lbs and engage in medium work, including being actively on your feet for a full shift

Ability to type and operate necessary equipment

Ability to withstand exposure to varying conditions of noise and sound, temperature, and environmental conditions both inside and outside

Ability to walk amidst varying terrains and perform event inspections, climbing stairs and ramps, or occasionally stooping, kneeling, pushing, and pulling to assist with event production needs

Please note that Contigo Catering's offices are ADA compliant, and Contigo Catering will do their best to make accommodations for the qualified applicant with mobility limitations or other disabilities. We encourage everyone of differing abilities to apply, but while doing so, please let us know what accommodations are required in your working environment.

Contigo provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, marital status, or sexual orientation. We particularly encourage individuals who identify as BIPOC and LGBTQ+ to apply.

The responsibilities and duties listed above are intended to communicate general priorities for this position, but should not be understood as an exhaustive list of all job requirements to be completed through the duration of employment with Contigo Catering.

Think this job is the fit for you? We encourage you to apply! If the listing is still live, we're still looking for the right person. We look forward to hearing from you!

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