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1St Cook Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

First Cook

Stratford, ON

CA$21 - CA$22/hr

Working across the Boar's Head Pub, Lobby Lounge, and Banquet Operations, the First Cook will help bring our food program to life through strong execution, attention to detail, and a genuine passion ...

1st Cook

Kanata, ON · On-site

CA$23/hr

The First Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while following food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual in ...

1st Cook

Rama, ON · On-site

In the role of First Cook, an energetic candidate who enjoys a fast paced environment would excel. If you have proven experience and are looking for an opportunity to be inspired, Casino Rama is the ...

In the role of First Cook, an energetic candidate who enjoys a fast paced environment would excel. If you have proven experience and are looking for an opportunity to be inspired, Casino Rama is the ...

... Cook, Chill Retherm cooking process. • Food Handlers Certification. • Completed satisfactory Criminal Background Check before first day of employment. This role may have physical demands ...

1st Cook

Rama, ON · On-site

In the role of First Cook, an energetic candidate who enjoys a fast paced environment would excel. If you have proven experience and are looking for an opportunity to be inspired, Casino Rama is the ...

Referral program - refer a friend and earn a bonus The Cook - Lead is responsible for preparing cooked foods, and must be able to perform all station functions of Fry, Flat Top Griddle, Pantry, and ...

In the role of First Cook, an energetic candidate who enjoys a fast paced environment would excel. If you have proven experience and are looking for an opportunity to be inspired, Casino Rama is the ...

In the role of First Cook, an energetic candidate who enjoys a fast paced environment would excel. If you have proven experience and are looking for an opportunity to be inspired, Casino Rama is the ...

In the role of First Cook, an energetic candidate who enjoys a fast paced environment would excel. If you have proven experience and are looking for an opportunity to be inspired, Casino Rama is the ...

The 1st Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while following food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual in ...

Second Cook

Guelph, ON · On-site

CA$25.11 - CA$30.84/hr

The 2nd Cook will direct and supervise part-time staff during regular shifts and plan daily assignments under the supervision of the Manager, Food & Beverage and guidance of the 1st Cook, to ensure ...

The 1st Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while following food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual in ...

The Lead Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while following food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual in ...

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1St Cook information

What is a 1st cook?

A 1st Cook is a senior kitchen staff member responsible for preparing and cooking food according to recipes and quality standards. They often oversee other cooks, ensure food safety and cleanliness, and coordinate meal production during busy service times. 1st Cooks may also assist with menu planning, inventory management, and training new staff. Their experience and leadership are essential in maintaining efficient kitchen operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1st Cook, you need a solid background in culinary techniques, food safety standards, and menu planning, often supported by a culinary diploma or certificate. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and HACCP protocols is typically required. Strong time management, teamwork, and leadership skills help a 1st Cook excel in a fast-paced kitchen environment. These abilities ensure high-quality food preparation, efficient kitchen operations, and a safe dining experience for guests.

What are some common challenges faced by a 1st cook, and how can they be addressed?

A 1st Cook often faces challenges such as managing high-pressure situations during peak service times, coordinating with kitchen staff to ensure timely meal preparation, and maintaining consistency in food quality. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and adaptability are key to overcoming these obstacles. Proactively preparing ingredients, delegating tasks efficiently, and staying calm under pressure can help ensure smooth kitchen operations and successful service.

What is the difference between 1St Cook vs Sous Chef?

Aspect1St CookSous Chef
CredentialsCooking experience, culinary certifications often preferredSimilar credentials, often with more experience
Work EnvironmentKitchen, restaurant, hotel kitchensSame as 1St Cook, often with supervisory duties
Employer & IndustryRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesSame as 1St Cook, with added leadership role

The 1St Cook and Sous Chef roles are closely related, both requiring culinary skills and experience in professional kitchens. The main difference is that the Sous Chef typically holds a supervisory position, assisting the Executive Chef and overseeing kitchen operations, while the 1St Cook focuses on preparing dishes and maintaining quality standards. Both roles are essential in culinary establishments, with the Sous Chef often acting as the second-in-command.

How do I start working as a 1st cook with no experience?

To start working as a 1st cook with no experience, gaining basic culinary skills through cooking classes or volunteering in kitchens can be helpful. Entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships provide hands-on training and help develop necessary skills such as food safety, knife techniques, and kitchen organization, which are essential for advancing to a 1st cook role.

What does a 1st cook do?

A 1st cook is responsible for preparing and cooking high-quality dishes, supervising kitchen staff, and ensuring food safety standards are met. They often oversee kitchen operations, plan menus, and work with kitchen equipment, requiring strong culinary skills and experience. The role typically involves working in fast-paced environments and may require certifications such as food safety training.

Where to start as a beginner 1st cook?

A beginner 1st cook should start by gaining basic culinary skills through hands-on experience, such as assisting in kitchens or taking cooking classes. Developing knowledge of food safety, knife skills, and kitchen organization is essential, along with understanding recipes and cooking techniques. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent and a willingness to learn and work in a fast-paced environment.

What are popular job titles related to 1St Cook jobs in Ontario?

For 1St Cook jobs in Ontario, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 1St Cook jobs in Ontario look for?

The top searched job categories for 1St Cook jobs in Ontario are:

Infographic showing various 1St Cook job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

CA$21 - CA$22/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

At The Queen's Cue and Crescent Hotels & Resorts, we are a team of hospitality professionals that are deeply connected to & proud of the exceptional experiences we provide for our guests. More than that, we know our Associates are the shining stars of what we do!

We understand what it takes to be a part of something great. We will encourage you to bring your true self to work every day, we will celebrate you and we will cheer you on as you shine bright in your career journey. Whether it be our health & wellness programs, best in class learning and development or our travel discounts that ‘feed your inner explorer’, we work hard to create and deliver on what YOU need. We are ready for you to start your journey with us where You Belong. We Care. Shine Bright.

Job Summary

The Queen’s Cue, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is seeking a skilled and motivated First Cook to join our culinary team in Stratford.

Working across the Boar’s Head Pub, Lobby Lounge, and Banquet Operations, the First Cook will help bring our food program to life through strong execution, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for quality. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being hands-on in the kitchen while taking greater ownership of service standards and day-to-day culinary execution.

Does this sound like you?

You are a confident and dependable cook who thrives in a busy kitchen and takes pride in delivering consistently high-quality food. You are comfortable taking ownership of your station, supporting the wider culinary team, and stepping in to help maintain a smooth and organized service.

You bring strong technical skills, sound judgment, and an eye for presentation. You enjoy working collaboratively with culinary leadership, contributing ideas, and helping maintain the standards that define the guest experience. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays is essential.

What We Offer

  • An exceptional benefit plan for eligible associates & your family members.
  • RRSP matching program for eligible associates.
  • Flexible scheduling to support work-life balance.
  • Hourly rate of $21.00 - $22.00, plus applicable gratuities.
  • 50% dining discount at The Queen’s Cue and The Boar’s Head Pub.
  • Discounts with Crescent managed properties in North America, and Marriott Worldwide for you & your family members.
  • A workplace that you can be proud of, where you are valued, trusted and supported by the team.

    Qualifications

    • Minimum 1 year of experience in a fast-paced culinary environment.
    • Strong willingness to learn and develop culinary skills and techniques.
    • A consistent track record of upholding a safe, sanitary, and regulation-compliant kitchen in line with Ontario’s health and safety requirements.
    • Effectively manage multiple tasks in fast-paced environments while maintaining organization and delivering consistent plate presentation standards.
    • Strong communication and teamwork skills across both front and back of house.
    • The ability to immerse within a culinary team with professionalism and a positive approach.
    • A hands-on, engaged style and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the evolution of the restaurant’s culinary vision.

    We welcome applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. This posting represents a current vacancy and Crescent Hotels & Resorts does not use artificial intelligence to screen, assess, and/or select applicants.

    At Crescent Hotels & Resorts we strive to create a great place to work where associates at all levels of our organization are respected for their differences, just like the guests and owners we serve. That’s why we are dedicated to creating an environment that facilitates open and honest conversations about race, equity, diversity, and inclusion. By examining our own beliefs and behaviors, we can create change through training, recruiting, and promoting diverse talent to strengthen our culture.