Overview
Executive Chef – NWT Brewing Company Jobs in Yellowknife, NT at NWT Brewing Company
Executive 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.
About the Role:
We’re seeking a working Executive 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 its unique challenges, but for the right person, it offers an incredibly rewarding lifestyle and the chance to be part of a truly outdoorsy community. We recognize that relocating can be a big step, so we’re committed to supporting our team members through the transition. Yellowknife boasts a vibrant community, a strong arts and food culture, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Our team is close-knit and welcoming, and we’re here to help with housing, local services, and getting connected to the community.
This role is part of a stable, year-round operation with a loyal local following and a vibrant tourism season. It’s an exciting opportunity for chefs seeking 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.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $82,000.00-$103,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Commuter benefits
- Company events
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Discounted or free food
- Extended health care
- Housing allowance
- Life insurance
- On-site gym
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Store discount
Education:
- AEC / DEP or Skilled Trade Certificate (preferred)
Experience:
- Head Chef: 4 years (required)
- Sous Chef or Equilvalent: 5 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person
Title: Executive Chef – NWT Brewing Company
Company: NWT Brewing Company
Location: Yellowknife, NT
