P.M. Catering Chef

Job Title: PM Catering Chef de Cuisine

Company: Culinary Catering – Wichita, KS

About Culinary Catering:
Culinary Catering is family-owned and operated, proudly serving the Wichita community for over 25 years. We provide a good, happy place to work because we care about our people and our customers. Our mission: If we’re not serving our customers, we’re serving those who are.

Position Summary:

The PM Catering Chef de Cuisine is responsible for overseeing and executing all evening catering culinary operations, ensuring exceptional food quality, presentation, and efficiency for both on-site and off-site events. This role requires strong communication skills, leadership skills, culinary expertise, and flexibility to support operations across multiple areas—including assisting with BBQ restaurant operations as needed. The ideal candidate is also able to qualify to drive a company vehicle for catering deliveries and off-site event support.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage all PM kitchen operations for catering events, including menu execution, staff supervision, and quality control.
• Prepare and oversee food production for evening functions including plated meals, buffets, and BBQ-style service.
• Ensure all food is cooked and presented to company standards, with a focus on timing and quality.
• Work collaboratively with event staff and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless service.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and health department-compliant kitchen at all times.
• Supervise PM culinary staff, providing training, guidance, and accountability.
• Assist with operations at the in-house BBQ restaurant during slower catering periods or when needed.
• Drive company vehicle to transport food, equipment, and staff to off-site events (must meet driver eligibility requirements).
• Monitor inventory and assist with ordering and prep schedules to support evening production needs.
• Maintain food cost and labor efficiency in line with company targets.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 3–5 years of professional kitchen experience, including catering or banquet service.
• At least 2 years in a supervisory or lead cook role.
• Strong knowledge of BBQ techniques and comfort working with smokers and grills is a plus.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.
• Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record (must qualify to drive company vehicle).
• ServSafe or equivalent food safety certification required.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a physically active, fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills & Attributes:

• Leadership and team-building abilities
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Calm under pressure with the ability to adapt quickly during events
• Attention to detail in food presentation and portioning
• Excellent communication skills

Working Conditions:

• Primarily PM shifts, with a flexible schedule depending on event demands
• Includes both on-site kitchen work and off-site event execution
• May include exposure to outdoor environments (especially for BBQ or outdoor events)
• Must be able to stand for extended periods and perform physically demanding tasks

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 30 – 40 per week

Work Location: In person