Chef's Assistant

We are seeking a dependable and skilled Chef's Assistant to join our culinary team at Derby Dinner Playhouse, a fast-paced dinner theatre serving large buffet-style meals to our guests. The ideal candidate will have at least five years of prior cooking and management experience, strong attention to detail, and the ability to prepare high-quality food for large groups while maintaining efficiency, safety, and consistency. In this role, your primary focus will be aiding in managing the kitchen staff and closing the kitchen nightly.

At Derby Dinner Playhouse, you’ll be part of a creative, high-energy environment that combines great food with live entertainment. We value teamwork, pride in craftsmanship, and creating memorable experiences for our guests every night.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare and cook buffet-style dishes according to established recipes and standards.

Assist with managing the kitchen staff and the buffet area nightly

Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work area in compliance with health and safety regulations.

Ensure kitchen staff are following all health protocols, maintaining a clean workspace, and assisting with smooth operation during peak service hours.

Follow portion control, quality, and presentation standards to deliver a consistent guest experience.

Support the Chef in ordering products, inventory, scheduling, developing new menus, training new staff, etc.

Qualifications

Minimum 5 years of prior cooking experience required (restaurant, catering, or banquet environment preferred).

Minimum 5  years of prior management experience  required (restaurant, catering, or banquet environment preferred).

Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks at once.

• Ability to step in as head chef when needed

Must be reliable, punctual, and team-oriented.

Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs.

Culinary certifications, ServSafe certification, or formal culinary training are a plus but not required.