Lead Cook - Vancouver (Seasonal Full time, March to October)

Armstrong Collective is the parent company of Rocky Mountaineer and Canyon Spirit, creating unforgettable rail journeys through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Western Canada and the American Southwest. Guided by our values, Create Meaningful Moments, Be One Team, and Achieve Extraordinary Outcomes, we show up every day with pride, ownership, and a shared commitment to excellence. We work hard, support one another, embrace new possibilities, and celebrate growth, all in a respectful and inclusive environment where integrity, collaboration, and passion for the guest experience lead the way.

Important Timeline

We are currently reviewing applications and will begin contacting selected candidates by December. Candidates moving forward in the recruitment process may be invited to participate in additional interview stages between January & February 2027. Successful candidates are expected to begin their roles in March 2027. Please keep an eye on your email, including your junk/spam folder, for updates regarding your application.

Role Overview

Reporting to the Sous Chef, the Lead Cook is responsible for delivering exceptional onboard culinary experiences that contribute to Rocky Mountaineer's luxury guest journey. Working in a fast-paced galley kitchen on a moving train, this role takes ownership of food quality, service execution, safety, and operational excellence while supporting a positive and collaborative team environment.

The Lead Cook prepares and presents premium meals featuring local ingredients and cuisine, consistently meeting quality, safety, and guest experience standards.

This role is deemed Safety Sensitive. This position requires the incumbent to periodically access an active railway area where impaired performance could result in significant incident affecting the health and safety of team members, guests, team members, the public, property or the environment.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Operations & Service Excellence

• Prepare and present meals according to established recipes, presentation standards, dietary requirements, and service timelines.

• Deliver high-quality culinary experiences while adapting to the demands of a fast-paced, small galley kitchen environment.

• Manage time effectively to ensure service readiness and efficient meal execution.

• Monitor food quality, portion control, inventory levels, and product usage to minimize waste and support cost-effective operations.

• Maintain accurate production records, checklists, and daily logs.

• Participate in waste reduction initiatives, including composting and recycling programs.

• Respond professionally to guest requests, dietary restrictions, and food allergy requirements.

• Collaborate closely with Onboard Hosts and operational teams to ensure seamless service delivery and positive guest experiences.

Team Collaboration and Support

• Contribute to a respectful, collaborative, and high-performing team environment.

• Provide day-to-day guidance, knowledge sharing, and on-the-job training to new team members.

• Support efficient workflow and service execution by communicating clearly and coordinating effectively with colleagues.

• Foster positive working relationships that contribute to operational success and team morale.

Health, Safety, and Compliance

• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety.

• Ensure all daily, end-of-service, and end-of-trip cleaning procedures are completed consistently.

• Operate, handle, and maintain kitchen equipment safely and responsibly.

• Identify and promptly report safety hazards, incidents, equipment issues, or operational concerns.

• Follow all company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements to support safe and efficient operations.

What You Bring

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Excellent organization, planning, and time management abilities.

• Ability to multitask effectively while maintaining accuracy and quality.

• Ability to adapt and perform in a dynamic operational environment.

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.

• Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to shared team goals.

Experience & Qualifications

• Valid Food Safe Level 1 certificate required.

• Fluency in English, both verbal and written.

• Valid government-issued identification suitable for domestic travel requirements (passport or driver's license).

• Knowledge of food safety standards, dietary accommodations, and kitchen sanitation practices.

• Minimum three years of experience as a line cook, restaurant cook, or in a comparable culinary role.

Work Environment

• Safety-sensitive environment with exposure to railway operations

• Able to travel away from your home and family life for up to four days per week, including working weekends

• Exceptional physical endurance and emotional resiliency with the ability to work long days

• Occasional outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions

• Must be able to push, pull, lift and carry up to 50 pounds

• Must be legally authorized to work in Canada through the end of the season (April – October)

Perks & Benefits

• Hourly compensation + gratuities
• Seasonal wage increases
• All meals while working onboard
• Up to $300 in Health Care Spending Account
• Friends and family rail tickets and packages discount
• Two annual complimentary rail pass (beginning your 2nd season)
• Work shoes reimbursement
• Opportunity to experience beautiful BC & Alberta
• Exclusive discount with various partners on Perkopolis
• Growth opportunities

Hourly wage: $27.68/hour + gratuities

We are an equal opportunity employer, driven by our values of Creating Meaningful Moments, Being One Team, and Achieving Extraordinary Outcomes. Our strong company culture supports our vision of a diverse, open, safe, and respectful workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members. If you require any accommodation during the application process or throughout your employment, please let us know. We will work with you to ensure your needs are met and to create a supportive environment.

Please ensure to opt-in for text messages when you apply to receive interview updates.

This job description is not exhaustive of all duties and will encompass additional duties assigned. Responsibilities, title, reporting structure and duties may be changed in response to business requirements.

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