Join The WCK Team

West Coast Kitchen is looking for the right person to join our team on a part-time basis through the spring and summer, with the opportunity to grow into a full-time position as production expands and as the successful candidate develops professionally.

Responsibilities

The Assistant Chef will report to the Kitchen Manager, with key responsibilities including:

• Assisting with the preparation of freeze-dried meals, snacks, and hot sauces from start to finish (over 50 recipes)
  
• Following standard operating procedures, including receiving, Critical Control Point (CCP) monitoring, batch recording, allergen management, hygiene, and cleaning/sanitation protocols
  
• Operating facility equipment, including freeze-dryers and other kitchen machinery, and assisting with product packaging
  
• Contributing to the continuous improvement of facility operations
  

This is an hourly position with three shifts per week, with the possibility of occasional evening or weekend work on a flexible basis. Shifts are typically 5–7 hours (8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.).

Skills and Experience Required

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a fast-growing, unique business on Vancouver Island, and to learn a wide range of international dishes from a chef with over 30 years of experience in international food and catering ventures.

The ideal candidate will have a love of good food, a commitment to local sourcing, and a willingness to bring creative ideas to the team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of experience in food preparation within a commercial kitchen
  
• FoodSafe Level 1 certification (preferred)
  
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  
• Knowledge of HACCP processes and federal meat production requirements (training will be provided)
  
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
  
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  

Compensation: $20–$23 per hour, depending on experience.

This position is based out of the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island.

West Coast Kitchen is looking for a reliable and detail-oriented individual to join our team as Packing & Shipping Staff. This role offers a chance to work with a high degree of autonomy to ensure timely order processing, efficient storage management, and smooth shipping operations.

This is a part-time, hourly position with approximately 15–20 hours per week, including at least three 4–6 hour day shifts (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) and occasional evening or weekend shifts. Hours may increase during our busy season (May–September) by mutual agreement.

Key Responsibilities

Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Packing & Shipping Staff will be responsible for:

1. Product Packaging

• Loading, unloading, and defrosting the dryer
  
• Packing and sealing products post freeze-drying
  
• Monitoring and recording Water Activity for each batch
  
• Completing batch records and entering batch volumes into the facility traceability system
  
• Washing, cleaning, and sanitizing according to facility standard operating procedures
  
• Organizing packaged products in the correct storeroom locations
  

2. Storage and Shipping

• Maintaining clean, organized, and secure storage rooms
  
• Packing online and retailer orders, generating shipping manifests, and delivering to local shops
  
• Preparing pallets for pickup when required
  

3. Monitoring and Maintenance

• Monitoring stock levels and supporting periodic inventory counts
  
• Reporting purchasing needs (bags, labels, O₂, nitrogen, shipping materials, tape, boxes, sleeves, etc.)
  
• Conducting facility equipment checks according to schedules and completing monthly site inspection reports
  
• Maintaining accurate maintenance records and reporting needs to the Operations Manager
  

4. Other Duties

• Packing market boxes and loading vehicles for Saturday markets and other events (e.g., Christmas markets, outdoor shows)
  
• Handling local deliveries or pickups as needed
  

Skills and Experience

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a fast-growing, unique business on Vancouver Island.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Ability to work independently and follow facility standard operating procedures
  
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple orders concurrently
  
• Good numeracy skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving
  
• Computer literacy (experience with facility traceability systems, ShipStation, and Shopify preferred)
  
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
  
• Valid driver’s license
  
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  
• FoodSafe Level 1 certification (preferred)
  

Compensation: $20–$23 per hour, depending on experience.

This position is based out of Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island.