About Company
Waterloo Guest House & Restaurant, nestled in the historic town of Black River, St. Elizabeth, is a cherished local landmark known for its warm hospitality and authentic Jamaican culinary experiences. For decades, we have been serving both locals and visitors with a menu that celebrates the rich flavors and vibrant traditions of the island. Our establishment prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create memorable dishes in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. From hearty breakfasts to exquisite dinners, and special catering events, we are dedicated to providing exceptional service and a taste of true Jamaican culture. Join our passionate team and contribute to a legacy of culinary excellence and community spirit.
Job Description
Are you a talented and passionate Cook with a profound flair for authentic Jamaican cuisine and an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence? Waterloo Guest House & Restaurant, a cherished landmark nestled in the historic town of Black River, St. Elizabeth, is actively seeking a dedicated and experienced Cook to join our vibrant kitchen team. This is a truly exciting opportunity for an individual who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and is eager to infuse their skills into preparing high-quality, memorable meals for both our esteemed restaurant guests and a variety of catered events. As a pivotal member of our culinary brigade, you will be instrumental in the daily operations of our kitchen, responsible for meticulously preparing a wide range of traditional Jamaican and international dishes, ensuring absolute consistency in taste, texture, and artistic presentation, all while adhering strictly to the highest standards of food safety and hygiene. You will work in close collaboration with our Head Chef and other passionate kitchen staff, actively contributing to seasonal menu development, daily specials, and maintaining our esteemed reputation for outstanding, authentic food. The ideal candidate will possess a strong work ethic, a creative and innovative approach to cooking, and a deep, practical understanding of comprehensive kitchen operations, including precise inventory management, efficient stock rotation, and proactive waste reduction strategies. This role demands flexibility to accommodate various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, to meet the fluctuating demands of our bustling restaurant and our growing catering schedule. If you are deeply passionate about the art of food, dedicated to delivering exceptional dining experiences that captivate the senses, and ready to grow professionally within a beloved and iconic Jamaican establishment, we wholeheartedly encourage you to apply and become a part of our culinary family.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook a variety of authentic Jamaican and international dishes according to established recipes and quality standards.
- Ensure all food items are prepared, plated, and presented consistently and in a timely manner, meeting guest expectations.
- Perform essential food preparation tasks, including precise chopping, seasoning, marinating, and portioning ingredients.
- Monitor food stock levels, conduct regular inventory checks, and assist in ordering supplies as needed to minimize waste and ensure ingredient freshness.
- Maintain an impeccably clean and organized kitchen workstation and overall environment, strictly adhering to all food safety and sanitation regulations (e.g., HACCP).
- Collaborate actively with the Head Chef on menu planning, development of daily specials, and comprehensive preparations for catering events.
- Operate and maintain a diverse range of kitchen equipment safely and efficiently, performing routine cleaning and minor troubleshooting.
- Assist with the training and mentorship of junior kitchen staff members, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
- Participate in inventory control procedures, including receiving, inspecting, and proper storage of all food supplies.
- Handle special dietary requests, allergies, and specific guest preferences with meticulous care and precision.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (at least 1 year) as a Cook in a restaurant or catering environment.
- Strong knowledge and proficiency in Jamaican and international culinary techniques and traditions.
- Excellent understanding and practical application of food safety and hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP principles).
- Ability to work efficiently, productively, and maintain composure under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Proficiency in operating various types of commercial kitchen equipment.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective time management abilities.
- Meticulous attention to detail regarding food preparation, culinary execution, plating, and overall presentation.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively as an integral part of a kitchen team.
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required by business demands.
Preferred Qualifications
- Culinary degree, diploma, or relevant certification from a recognized culinary institution.
- Prior experience with comprehensive inventory management, cost control, and waste reduction strategies in a kitchen setting.
- Familiarity with local Jamaican suppliers, seasonal produce, and indigenous ingredients.
- Previous experience working in a guesthouse, hotel restaurant, or similar hospitality establishment.
- Current certificate in food handling and safety from a recognized authority.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
- Opportunity to work with fresh, high-quality, locally sourced Jamaican ingredients.
- Be an integral part of a supportive, friendly, and community-oriented team.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and culinary skill enhancement.
- Provided staff meals during designated shifts.
- Employee discounts on restaurant services and guest house accommodations.
How to Apply
We encourage all qualified and passionate candidates to submit their application. Please click on the link below to apply for the job. We look forward to reviewing your application.