Head Chef – The Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery

Location - Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

✈ Relocation + Housing Support Provided

Salary: $82,000–$104,000 + benefits

Lead the kitchen at one of Canada’s northernmost and busiest brewpubs. This is a hands-on leadership role with real impact on our food program, team, and day-to-day operations.

Located in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, The Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery is Canada’s northernmost brewpub, with a 112-seat dining room and 50-seat seasonal patio in historic Old Town.

We pair award-winning, northern-inspired beers with elevated, scratch-made gastropub food. Our kitchen plays a central role in the guest experience and we’re looking for a Head Chef to lead it.

About the Role:

We’re seeking a working Head Chef, a culinary leader who balances management responsibilities with hands-on cooking and team development. You’ll manage the team, develop menus, and maintain high standards across the kitchen.

This is a leadership role first. You’ll be responsible for guiding the team, setting standards, and driving the kitchen forward. You won’t be tied to a station, but you should be comfortable stepping in during service when needed and leading from the front. You’ll build and lead a team you trust, allowing you to balance leadership responsibilities with involvement in service when it matters most.

This role is ideal for a chef who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and is ready to take real ownership of a kitchen while being part of a tight-knit, community-driven team.

What We Offer:

• Comprehensive extended health benefits, including dental and mental health support
• Relocation and airfare assistance from any major Canadian city
• Monthly housing subsidy and staff accommodations available
• Vehicle fuel subsidy
• Access to a private company gym
• Discounts on food, drink, and merchandise
• A stable, year-round operation with a loyal local following and strong tourism seasons
• Support and guidance transitioning to life in the North
• Opportunity to grow within a multi-faceted brewery and hospitality business

Living in Yellowknife:

Living in the North comes with challenges—long winters and a semi-remote location—but for the right person, it’s an incredibly rewarding lifestyle and a chance to be part of a truly unique community.

Relocating to the North is a big move, and we work hard to support our team through the transition. Yellowknife offers a vibrant community, strong arts and food culture, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Our team is close-knit and welcoming, and we provide guidance on housing, local services, and connecting with the community.

This role is part of a stable, year-round operation with a loyal local following and a busy tourism season, making it an exciting opportunity for chefs who want both professional growth and a rewarding lifestyle in Canada’s North.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead kitchen operations and mentor the culinary team, including sous chefs, line cooks, and prep staff
• Develop and execute a diverse, inspired menu that complements our craft beers
• Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and timely delivery
• Standardize recipes to maintain consistency across all dishes
• Manage inventory, order supplies effectively, and maintain food and labor cost targets
• Implement and enforce health and safety standards
• Maintain equipment and cleaning schedules
• Collaborate with FOH staff to maintain product knowledge and tastings for nightly specials
• Coordinate, assist, and/or perform in-house or off-premise events
• Collaborate with the brew team on beer and food pairings and special event menus
• Stay current with industry trends and continuously improve menu offerings
• Foster a positive and motivating work environment, leading by example

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef, or Head Chef in a high-volume restaurant or brewpub setting
• Culinary degree or equivalent experience is preferred
• Strong knowledge of food and beverage pairing, particularly with craft beer
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment
• Creative and innovative approach to menu development
• Strong understanding of health and safety regulations
• Passion for the culinary arts and a commitment to excellence
• Must be comfortable rolling up your sleeves, basic maintenance skills and a can-do, make-do mindset are essential parts of life in the North
• Valid driver’s licence (required due to location)

Qualified candidates will be contacted directly.