2026 Fair Catering Cook

2026 Fair Catering Cook

Part-time; Seasonal

Wage & Paygrade: $25.49/hour (PG 79) plus 5% in lieu of

benefits and vacation.

Date Posted: June 10, 2026

Who we are… 

The Pacific National Exhibition is an iconic institution in BC, famous for bringing generations of people together to celebrate and build memories. This 116-year-old, non-profit organization has an annual operating budget of over $70 million dollars and generates revenue through four activity streams:  the 15-day annual summer Fair which averages more than 700,000 people annually, Playland amusement park which welcomes 400,000 guests annually including Fright Nights, and a busy year-round portfolio of events including concerts, trade shows and film, cultural and community events.  In total we bring over 2 million people through the site each year. The fourth activity stream is park care and facility maintenance.  The PNE is proud of the work it does at Hastings Park and has a vibrant team that is passionate about events, guest experience and delivering memorable experiences.

At the PNE, we strive to create an environment that reflects our organization’s core values: Enthusiasm, Excellence and Evolution. With a focus on these core values, we are committed to achieving our mission which is to “Deliver Memorable Experiences” for all who interact with the PNE whether it is our guests, our employees, or the community.

We are seeking an experienced cook that has good communication and time-management skills to join our PNE Food & Beverage Catering Team. Our ideal candidate is a team player that can present a professional and respectful work ethic. The Catering Cook of the Food & Beverage Department will work under the direction of the Kitchen Manager and will maintain high standards of food quality and presentation, while ensuring work is performed in compliance with FOODSAFE guidelines and all other applicable legislation and company policies.

Why join our Team?

• We create memorable experiences, and we have fun doing it – join us!
• Base wage starts at $25.49/hr with 5% additional pay in lieu of vacation & other benefits, resulting in a total of $26.76/hour.
• Training and development - learn new skills and gain valuable work experience.
• Career growth – opportunities for promotions and position transfers.
• Opportunity to create lasting memories & friendships.
• Great perks & employee rewards!
• Employee discounts on passes to The Fair, as well as at all PNE Food Stands!
• We want to recognize you – gift card rewards available all season long!
  
  

What will you do this year?

In your role as a Fair Catering Cook, your primary accountabilities will be to:

• Cook and prepare food according to production guidelines and recipes for a variety of catered functions as well as PNE concession stands
• Understand and demonstrate proper operation of standard cooking and kitchen equipment such as ranges, ovens, deep fat fryers, steam cookers, meat slicers, dishwashers, and other related equipment..
• Ensure food is stored at the appropriate temperature for the appropriate length of time and follow all food safety standards.
• Ensure that the highest quality of food is served timely and effectively.
• Responsible for using correct portions when cutting, preparing, and serving items.
• Cut, trim, bone, and carve meats and poultry for cooking.
• Control food waste and loss.
• May produce food and serve customers at an a la carte station.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary workstation.
• Maintenance of all walk in coolers including labeling, dating, and rotating all products.
• Ensure PNE Uniform and Appearance policy is always adhered to.
• Perform other related duties as required.

What else?

• One to two years minimum of previous experience required.
• High school or equivalent education required.
• FOODSAFE Level 1 Certified.
• Good knowledge of methods, materials and tools used in large scale cooking as well as short order cooking.
• Skills to prepare and present foods in an appetizing manner.
• The ability to follow recipes and to safely operate all kitchen equipment.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team environment.
• Excellent customer service.
• Previous experience helping supervise prep cooks is considered an asset.
• Post-Secondary education related to this position is considered an asset.

When will you work?

• Dates:
• The PNE Fair runs from August 22^nd – September 7^th.
• Training and orientation will take place throughout the 2 weeks prior to August 22^nd depending on your department’s operational needs.
• Hours:
• The PNE Fair is open from 11AM – 11PM – with a variety of shifts available.
• Availability Requirements:
• Must be available for up to full-time hours (40 hours per week) including evenings, weekends, and late nights from August 22^nd – September 7^th.

How to Apply?

Applications can be submitted via the PNE website at www.pne.ca/jobs and will be accepted until the roles are filled. Preference will be given to candidates who submit their resume before Sunday, June 21, 2026.

Successful applicants will receive an interview invitation via email in early July. Virtual group interviews will be held on July 16^th and July 17^th. The interview invitation will allow all candidates to choose their preferred Fair jobs.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The PNE is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating an inclusive workforce that reflects the diverse community we proudly serve. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or age. If you require any support or accommodations throughout any stage of the recruitment process, please contact the People & Culture Department at [email protected].