Butler's Pantry logo

Full-Time Prep & Event Chef

St. Louis, MO, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Hourly
Range $20.00 - $25.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
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Benefits

competitive compensation
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
short-term disability insurance
Life insurance
Paid Time Off
Flexible spending account
401k Employer Match
Employee assistance program
Flexible work hours
team bonus structure
daily team lunch
employee appreciation events

Job Description

Butler's Pantry is a premier catering company with a rich history of over 50 years dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences through exceptional culinary services. Known for delivering high-quality, delectable food, and outstanding service, Butler's Pantry is committed to being the best in the catering industry. The company places great value on passion, teamwork, positivity, and putting people first, fostering an environment where every team member can thrive. Their reputation for excellence is built on a foundation of collaboration, dedication, and a shared goal of making every event a memorable success. As a leading catering business, Butler's Pantry prioritizes innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction in all aspects of their operations, making them a sought-after partner for events that require impeccable culinary expertise and flawless execution.

The role of Event Chef/Commissary Production Chef at Butler's Pantry is a full-time culinary leadership position that balances offsite event execution with commissary production and event preparation responsibilities. This dynamic role is split evenly between overseeing the culinary aspects of events and managing production in the main kitchen. The successful candidate will be a pivotal figure ensuring that the Butler's Pantry cuisine maintains its integrity from preparation right through to the presentation on the final plate. Through meticulous attention to detail, consistency, and strong leadership qualities, this chef drives culinary excellence both onsite at events and behind the scenes in the commissary.

In the event execution capacity, the Event Chef is responsible for leading and directing the onsite culinary team to deliver food that meets the company's high standards. This includes managing food safety and handling, maintaining stock, problem-solving in real time, and collaborating closely with the Service Captain to ensure a seamless event experience. On the commissary production side, the chef arrives prepared and in uniform, efficiently completes prep work, adheres strictly to recipes, maintains kitchen cleanliness and equipment, and supports event packing and logistics. Leadership by example is a crucial element of the role, as the chef mentors team members, encourages professional conduct, and fosters an environment where continuous improvement is not only expected but embraced.

Butler's Pantry prides itself on a culture of Making It Better Everyday (MIBE), where leadership and personal responsibility go hand in hand with team collaboration. This role is ideal for culinary professionals who thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working as part of a team, and are motivated by the opportunity to lead and learn. The company offers a competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits, underlining their commitment to both their employees' wellbeing and professional growth. Joining Butler's Pantry means becoming part of a respected brand that values passion, consistency, and excellence in catering services.

Job Requirements

  • Minimum 3 years of relevant culinary experience
  • strong knife skills and familiarity with sauté, sear, emulsification, and other core culinary techniques
  • ability to execute and follow recipes precisely
  • strong problem-solving skills
  • ability to make independent decisions
  • ability to interact with people with ease using highly developed interpersonal skills
  • professional appearance and conduct
  • ServSafe certification appreciated
  • ability to handle a physically demanding role including standing for long periods and lifting heavy loads
  • ability to work a flexible and sometimes non-traditional schedule based on event demands
  • team-oriented mindset with leadership capability

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum 3 years of relevant culinary experience (catering preferred)
  • strong knife skills and familiarity with sauté, sear, emulsification, and other core culinary techniques
  • ability to execute and follow recipes precisely
  • strong problem-solving skills and ability to make independent decisions
  • ability to interact with people with ease using highly developed interpersonal skills
  • professional appearance and conduct
  • ServSafe certification appreciated
  • team-oriented mindset with leadership capability

Job Duties

  • Oversee preparation and presentation of cuisine per Butler's Pantry standards
  • execute all required tasks according to the event BEO
  • lead and direct the onsite culinary team
  • enforce the guarantee of fresh, high-quality food product in all situations
  • supervise and ensure the highest standards of food safety and handling practices
  • ensure supplies are stocked, cleaned, and properly stored
  • problem-solve in real time with professionalism and composure
  • actively participate in service and quality control
  • maintain professional appearance and conduct at all times
  • work with on-site Service Captain to ensure smooth event execution and full team collaboration
  • attend monthly Service Leader Meetings
  • arrive at your station ready to work at scheduled time and in proper uniform
  • complete prep lists efficiently and accurately
  • work at a brisk, steady pace while maintaining high standards
  • demonstrate full recipe knowledge when prepping or assisting with production
  • use scales, measuring spoons, recipe cards, and perform portion control tests
  • maintain strict adherence to food safety and sanitation standards
  • clean as you go and maintain kitchen equipment in like new condition
  • chop, dice, measure, read prep lists, and execute recipes precisely
  • assist with packing, organization, and event loading as needed
  • support collaborative all hands-on deck dates as business demands
  • be a MIBE (Make It Better Everyday) leader
  • model appropriate behavior and encourage team members to follow suit
  • support a climate that attracts, retains, and motivates top-quality culinary and service staff
  • mentor and develop on-site team members in culinary technique and execution
  • willingly assist or lead team members as needed
  • contribute to continuous improvement in systems, organization, and execution

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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