About this role
*Job post summary*
*Date posted:* 12 June 2026
*Pay:* CA$21.99 per hour
Job Description:
*Position Title: Cook*
*Location: *Vancouver Island University Student's Union Pub, Nanaimo, BC
*Union Affiliation: *CUPE 5278
*Employment Type:* Part-Time/Full-Time
*Hours of Work:*
* Part-time to full time: 5-34 hours per week. These positions have a seasonal layoff in the summer, from May to August. These are unionized positions with the right to recall after the seasonal layoff.
*Pay Structure:*
* Hourly wage: $21.99 per hour * Additional pay: 17.2% in lieu of vacation pay and statutory holidays * Other benefits: Kitchen tip pooling * Payment method: Direct deposit
*Overview*
The Students' Union Pub at Vancouver Island University is seeking motivated, experienced cooks to join our team. We operate a casual, welcoming environment that can shift to a fast pace during busy periods. VIU student applicants will be given priority.
*About the Role*
Cooks play a key role in delivering high-quality dishes to guests while maintaining strong kitchen standards. This position involves food preparation, line cooking, cleaning tasks, and teamwork to ensure smooth, efficient service.
*Key Responsibilities*
* Prepare and cook all menu items following established recipes and presentation standards * Ensure food quality, temperature, and plating meet service expectations * Maintain a clean, organized workstation and complete daily/weekly cleaning tasks * Prepare house-made condiments and spreads (chipotle mayo, pesto mayo, garlic parm mayo, garlic butter, black bean paste) * Portion and prep ingredients such as cheeses, wings, garlic dry ribs, cauliflower bites, and other line items * Restock and refresh the service line throughout shifts * Prepare dishes for guests with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or food-allergy requirements * Filter fryer oil, clean equipment, and organize fridges and freezers * Keep prep lists updated and ensure the line is ready before service * Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health regulations * Cook proteins to proper temperatures and complete temperature logs * Open and close the kitchen independently when required * Maintain bill times of 15 minutes or less during service * Handle high-stress periods, multitask effectively, and work both independently and as part of a team
*Qualifications*
* Minimum 2 years' experience cooking in a restaurant, pub, or similar environment * Valid Food Safe certification * Ability to work in a busy, high-pressure kitchen * Able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods * Flexible availability, including evenings, mornings, and occasional weekends * Strong attention to detail and commitment to consistent quality * Solid communication and teamwork skills * Able to work independently and show initiative * Familiarity with clean-as-you-go practices and FIFO inventory methods
*Working Conditions*
* Long periods of standing and exposure to heat * Fast-paced service environment * Lifting and moving items up to 50 lbs * Unionized workplace with established policies and procedures
*Note*
This job description outlines the core duties and expectations of the Cook position. Other related tasks may be assigned as needed to support kitchen operations.
Benefits:
* Company events * Discounted or free food * Flexible schedule
Application question(s):
* Ability to work solo in a fast-paced environment and handle busy rushes?
Experience:
* Cooking: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
* Food Safety Certification (required)
Work Location: In person
Pay: $21.99 per hour
Benefits: * Company events * Discounted or free food * Flexible schedule
Application question(s): * Ability to remain calm, cool and collected under pressure? * Ability to work independently at times?
Experience: * Quick service & fast food restaurant: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification: * Food Safety Certification (required)
Work Location: In person