About Company
Waterloo Guest House is a cherished gem nestled in the picturesque town of Black River, Jamaica. For years, we have provided a warm, inviting, and authentic Jamaican experience to our guests, offering comfortable accommodations, genuine hospitality, and exquisite local cuisine. Our philosophy centres around creating memorable moments, showcasing the rich culture and vibrant flavours of Jamaica. We pride ourselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft dishes that delight the palate and reflect the island’s culinary heritage. Joining our team means becoming part of a close-knit family dedicated to excellence and fostering a truly unique guest experience.
Job Description
We are seeking a passionate and highly skilled Chef to lead our kitchen and elevate the culinary experience at Waterloo Guest House. This is a unique opportunity for a creative and dedicated individual to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Jamaican cuisine while also bringing innovative flair to our menu. As our Chef, you will be at the heart of our hospitality, responsible for crafting extraordinary dishes that highlight fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, ensuring every meal is an unforgettable part of our guests’ stay. You will take charge of all kitchen operations, from menu planning and ingredient sourcing to food preparation, presentation, and maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and food safety.
Your role extends beyond just cooking; you will be a culinary artist, an innovator, and a leader. We envision a Chef who can not only master traditional Jamaican fare but also infuse it with contemporary techniques and international influences, creating a distinctive dining experience that sets Waterloo Guest House apart. You will have the creative freedom to design daily specials, explore new culinary trends, and continuously evolve our offerings to cater to diverse palates while staying true to our local roots. This position requires someone with a deep love for food, an unwavering commitment to quality, and the ability to inspire and mentor a small, dedicated kitchen team.
Beyond the stovetop, you will manage inventory, control costs, minimize waste, and ensure efficient workflow within the kitchen. You will play a crucial role in maintaining our reputation for exceptional dining, directly contributing to guest satisfaction and the overall success of the guest house. We are looking for a collaborative spirit who enjoys working in a supportive environment, eager to learn, teach, and grow with us. If you are ready to bring your culinary expertise to a place where your creativity is valued, and your passion can truly shine, we invite you to become a vital part of the Waterloo Guest House family. This role promises a challenging yet rewarding journey in one of Jamaica’s most charming locales, where every dish tells a story.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, plan, and execute innovative and appealing menus, including daily specials, with a strong focus on Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine.
- Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and quality control, ensuring consistency and excellence.
- Manage kitchen staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
- Source fresh, high-quality, local, and seasonal ingredients, establishing strong relationships with local suppliers.
- Maintain strict adherence to health, safety, and sanitation regulations (HACCP) in all kitchen areas.
- Manage inventory, control food costs, minimize waste, and maintain accurate records of purchases and expenditures.
- Collaborate with guest house management to align culinary offerings with overall business goals and guest expectations.
- Implement new culinary techniques and stay abreast of industry trends to continually enhance the dining experience.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a reputable restaurant or hospitality establishment.
- Extensive knowledge of Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine, ingredients, and cooking methods.
- Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and train kitchen staff.
- Exceptional culinary creativity and innovation.
- Demonstrable knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations (HACCP).
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Culinary degree or relevant professional certification from a recognized institution.
- Experience in menu engineering and cost control for small to medium-sized operations.
- Proficiency in additional languages (e.g., Spanish) is a plus.
- A portfolio of past culinary creations or menu designs.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Opportunity for creative freedom and menu development.
- Access to fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Professional development and growth opportunities.
- Paid vacation and public holidays.
- Staff meals provided.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their detailed resume, along with a cover letter highlighting their culinary philosophy and experience relevant to this role. Please include any links to your culinary portfolio or past work. We encourage applicants to click on the link below to apply for the job.