Description
It is acknowledged that Central Okanagan Public Schools operates within the unceded, Traditional Territory of the Okanagan syilx peoples. The School District enrolls approximately 25,500 students (including over 3,200 students who self-identify as having Indigenous ancestry). Central Okanagan Public Schools is located in the Central Okanagan encompassing the communities of Peachland, West Kelowna, Kelowna, and Lake Country. There are a total of 50 school sites with 32 Elementary Schools, 8 Middle schools, 5 Secondary Schools, 3 Learning Centers, an Alternate Education School, and an Online Learning School (6-12). Central Okanagan Public Schools has an excellent reputation of providing outstanding, student-centered programs in a diverse and inclusive environment as well as offering a wide range of educational opportunities for its students and staff. We believe equity empowers each learner to thrive, holistically.
We invite applications for the position of:
Culinary Assistant - Rutland Senior Secondary School
Under the supervision of the Principal and Culinary Arts Teacher, this position assists with the operation of the kitchen/cafeteria including preparing and serving food, operating, maintaining and troubleshooting commercial kitchen equipment and in teaching students safe and efficient methods of food preparation and distribution.
Duties and responsibilities include:
Food Preparation
- purchase supplies and quality control of all incoming orders;
- daily organization of food supplies & materials;
- assist with menu planning;
- assist students with the preparation of food;
- assist in the set up and serving of meals;
- assist with time management to ensure all menu items are completed on time;
- ensure all prepared food items meet safety and quality standards;
- operating, maintaining and trouble shooting commercial kitchen equipment;
- ensure all work areas are clean and all food is properly stored and prepared.
Student Supervison and Staff Training
- explain procedures to a diverse group of students and staff;
- schedule & assign tasks to individual students;
- demonstrate proper techniques to students and staff;
- ensure students are performing work in a proper manner having regards to safety, cleanliness and food quality.
Recordkeeping
- receive and receipt monies;
- receive and verify invoices and the delivery of goods and ensure inventory control;
- maintain a variety of files and records using basic computer software and skills.
The successful candidate must have:
- completed Grade 12 or equivalent;
- possess a valid BC Driver's License;
- completed a minimum of six months of post-secondary education in a Culinary Training Program or Cooks Level 1 Certificate
- minimum of two years recent cooking experience in a commercial kitchen or equivalent;
- current FOODSAFE level 1 certificate;
- possess knowledge and the ability to handle safely a wide variety of commercial kitchen machinery and equipment;
- the ability to meet time deadlines and maintain high quality food standards with a focus on food safety and sanitation;
- be physically capable of performing the duties of the position; some heavy lifting required;
- be able to work on feet for majority of the day;
- possess knowledge of WorkSafe BC, WHMIS, HACCP regulations and first aid procedures.
The following would be considered an asset:
- Red Seal in Culinary Arts
- Foodsafe Level 2
- Current First Aid Certificate
The successful applicant will be expected to:
- ensure general kitchen cleanliness in accordance with FOODSAFE regulations and practices as the facility is subject to regular health inspections;
- assist the Culinary Arts Teacher in coordinating kitchen operations;
- work with students to prepare a variety of basic and advanced food products for sale in the cafeteria;
- use proper culinary terms when working with and demonstrating techniques to students;
- work with a broad spectrum of students including students with exceptionalities;
- work with students to maintain a clean work area by cleaning and sanitizing cafeteria supplies and equipment and to wash, dry and fold kitchen laundry;
- demonstrate exceptional personal hygiene, sanitation and safety habits at all times;
- supervise the daily cleaning of all kitchen equipment, and the washing and sanitizing of all dishes and utensils;
- possess strong communication and interpersonal skills;
- operate cash register if necessary.
This is a permanent full-time position beginning as soon as possible with a regular schedule of 35 hours per week at a wage rate of $31.90 per hour plus a comprehensive employee benefit package including extended health and dental coverage, short-term and long-term disability insurance and participation in a defined benefit pension plan.
Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at with cover letter and a detailed resume, including three (3) professional references (names and phone numbers) and copies of certifications.
This position will remain open until filled; however, full consideration will be given to applications received by 8am on March 2, 2026.
The Central Okanagan Public Schools thanks all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
