Job Description
Job DescriptionJob Title: Garde Manger ChefLocation: Puerto Rico Employment Type: Full Time Start Date: Open Availability Relocation / Sign-On: Available
Position Summary
A premier culinary operation is seeking a talented Garde Manger Chef to oversee the preparation and presentation of all cold kitchen items. The Garde Manger Chef is responsible for salads, appetizers, pâtés, terrines, charcuterie, chilled seafood, canapés, and buffet displays. This role requires a chef with refined technique, strong organizational skills, and a meticulous eye for detail and presentation.
The Garde Manger station plays a central role in banquet production, high-end events, and à la carte service, making this an essential leadership position within the culinary team.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States or Puerto Rico without sponsorship. No work permits will be issued for this role.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and execute high-quality cold dishes, including salads, charcuterie, terrines, canapés, and chilled appetizers
- Ensure visually stunning plating and garnishing with a strong emphasis on detail
- Manage cold food production for banquets, buffets, events, and daily à la carte service
- Oversee proper storage, rotation, and organization of all cold ingredients in accordance with strict food safety standards
- Maintain HACCP compliance and ensure impeccable sanitation throughout the cold kitchen
- Work closely with the Executive Chef and Sous Chefs on menu development and seasonal updates
- Train, guide, and supervise junior culinary staff assigned to the Garde Manger station
- Maintain inventory levels, track usage, and assist with ordering for all cold kitchen items
- Collaborate effectively with the hot line, pastry, and banquet teams to support seamless service
- Ensure consistent quality, portioning, and presentation across all cold dishes
Qualifications & Experience
- Proven experience as a Garde Manger Chef, Pantry Chef, or in a similar cold kitchen leadership role
- Strong background in cold food preparation, such as charcuterie, terrines, composed salads, and canapés
- Excellent knife skills and precision in presentation and garnishing
- Experience in high-end restaurants, hotels, or large-volume culinary operations preferred
- Strong understanding of food safety standards, cold storage requirements, and HACCP procedures
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work well within a team
- Must be reliable, detail-oriented, and consistent in production
- Must be legally authorized to work in the US or Puerto Rico without the need for sponsorship
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Passionate about cold cuisine and dedicated to craftsmanship
- Highly organized with excellent attention to detail
- Calm, efficient, and dependable
- Strong sense of creativity balanced with respect for classical techniques
- Team-oriented with a professional and positive attitude