About Company
Fairmont Empress is an iconic symbol of Victoria, British Columbia, and a cherished landmark on the city’s Inner Harbour. With over a century of history, this grand hotel offers unparalleled luxury, exceptional service, and a truly memorable experience for guests worldwide. As part of the prestigious Fairmont Hotels & Resorts collection, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every colleague can thrive. We pride ourselves on our culinary excellence, offering multiple dining experiences that range from classic afternoon tea to sophisticated fine dining. Joining Fairmont Empress means becoming part of a legacy of hospitality, contributing to a vibrant team, and developing your career in a supportive and world-class environment. We believe in nurturing talent and offering pathways for growth, making us an ideal place for individuals looking to build a career in hospitality.
Job Description
Are you an enthusiastic and dedicated individual with a passion for supporting a bustling kitchen environment? Fairmont Empress is excited to offer a unique opportunity for a Kitchen Porter to join our acclaimed culinary team through a dedicated Sponsorship Pathway program. This role is perfect for someone looking to launch or advance their career in hospitality, providing essential support to our chefs and culinary operations while offering a clear path towards professional development and potential sponsorship. As a Kitchen Porter, you will be the backbone of our kitchen, ensuring cleanliness, organization, and efficiency, which are crucial for our high standards of food preparation and service. You will gain invaluable experience in a luxury hotel setting, working alongside talented chefs and a supportive team. This pathway is designed to invest in your future, offering a structured environment for learning and growth within one of Canada’s most historic and beautiful hotels. If you are eager to learn, hard-working, and aspire to a career in the culinary world, we encourage you to apply and become a vital part of our celebrated culinary team.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene in all kitchen areas, including floors, walls, and work surfaces.
- Operate and maintain dishwashing machinery efficiently, ensuring all crockery, cutlery, and kitchen equipment are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
- Assist with the unloading and proper storage of deliveries, ensuring stock rotation and organization according to hotel standards.
- Support chefs with basic food preparation tasks as required, such as washing, peeling, and chopping vegetables.
- Ensure all kitchen waste is managed and disposed of correctly following hotel and environmental guidelines.
- Help organize and store cleaned equipment, pots, and pans in designated areas, ensuring easy access for the culinary team.
- Adhere to all health and safety regulations, including COSHH, ensuring a safe working environment for the entire team.
- Report any equipment malfunctions or safety hazards to the supervisory team promptly to prevent disruption and ensure safety.
- Contribute to a positive and respectful team environment, supporting colleagues as needed during busy periods.
- Be proactive in identifying and addressing cleanliness needs during service periods to maintain operational flow and guest satisfaction.
Required Skills
- Basic understanding of kitchen hygiene and cleaning procedures.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and physically demanding environment.
- Strong work ethic, reliability, and punctuality.
- Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to cleanliness.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Good communication skills, with the ability to understand and follow instructions.
- Willingness to learn and take direction from senior kitchen staff.
- Must be able to lift and carry heavy items (up to 25 kg) safely and regularly.
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as per operational needs.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in a kitchen or hospitality setting (e.g., as a cleaner, dish washer, or food runner).
- Basic knowledge of food safety practices and standards.
- Eligibility and strong desire to participate in a sponsorship pathway program for career development.
- High school diploma or equivalent educational background.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive wages and comprehensive benefits package.
- Opportunity for professional development and career advancement within Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and the broader Accor network.
- Dedicated sponsorship pathway program for eligible candidates, investing in your long-term career.
- Discounted hotel stays and food & beverage experiences across the Accor network worldwide.
- Comprehensive training and mentorship from experienced culinary professionals.
- Access to employee wellness programs and resources.
- Subsidized meals during shifts.
- A supportive, inclusive, and dynamic work environment in an iconic luxury hotel.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their detailed resume and a compelling cover letter outlining their interest in the Kitchen Porter – Sponsorship Pathway role and their suitability for the position. Please ensure your application highlights any relevant experience and your commitment to a long-term career in hospitality. Click on the application link below to apply directly through our careers portal.