Do you dream in courses, live for plating perfection, and thrive in the controlled chaos of a high-end event kitchen? We’re searching for seasoned pros to lead our on-site culinary teams and serve up unforgettable experiences at every event. Lead the charge at large-scale, high-end events across Colorado (think galas, weddings, exclusive soirées). Communicate and problem-solve like a pro with fellow managers to ensure every event menu is unforgettable — for all the right reasons. If you’re a decisive leader with a passion for elevated cuisine and seamless service, we’ve got a chef coat with your name on it!

The Lead Event Chef at Footers Catering oversees all on-site culinary operations, ensuring food quality, presentation, and service execution meet company standards. This role leads and holds culinary teams accountable while collaborating with senior leadership and other departments to deliver seamless, high-level events. They manage event pack-outs, timelines, truck logistics, and kitchen setup, ensuring every detail is organized and executed to specification. On-site, they direct production, build visually impactful buffets and displays, maintain food safety standards, and drive clear communication with the event leadership team. As a mentor and culture leader, they embody Footers’ core values, inspire excellence, and continuously elevate the performance and professionalism of the culinary team.

Salary Range: $22.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits

Hourly Base Salary Based on Experience

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Flexible Schedule

Health Insurance

Hands on Training

Career Growth Opportunities

Shift Meals

• 2+ years of professional kitchen experience (high-volume or catering preferred)
• Experience working off-site events or in non-traditional kitchen environments strongly preferred
• Foundational cooking techniques (proteins, sauces, knife skills, hot & cold production)
• Ability to execute multiple menu items simultaneously under time constraints
• Understanding of proper food handling, sanitation, and temperature control
• Comfortable setting up and breaking down temporary field kitchens
• Ability to transport, lift, and move equipment safely (50 lbs+)
• Organized and detail-oriented in fast-paced environments
• Strong time management and ability to work within strict event timelines
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team onsite
• Clear communicator with culinary team and event leadership
• Professional demeanor when interacting at client-facing events
• Ability to stand for extended periods (8–12+ hours on event days)
• Comfortable working evenings and weekends
• Valid driver’s license and clean motor vehicle report (driving company vehicles required)

• Prepare, cook, and finish all menu items for off-site events
• Execute frequently changing menus with accuracy and consistency
• Maintain presentation standards in fast-paced environments
• Set up temporary kitchen spaces at event venues
• Ensure safe food handling and temperature control during transport and service
• Work closely with culinary and front-of-house team members onsite
• Communicate clearly to ensure smooth service timing
• Adjust quickly to weather, venue limitations, timeline shifts, or last-minute changes
• Maintain professionalism under pressure
• Stay organized while managing multiple menu components simultaneously
• Ability to lift, transport, and set up equipment
• Comfortable working long hours on event days
• Flexible schedule including evenings and weekends

Footers Catering and Social Capitol Venue are at the forefront of the event and hospitality industry. Our company is recognized nationally for exceptional customer service, culinary innovation, hospitality excellence, and creating a company culture that celebrates the hard work of our employees. Our success is driven by the innovation and passion of our team and we have a work environment that focuses on LOVING WHAT WE DO, MAKING IT BETTER EVERY DAY, and CREATING EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES.

We’re not just a catering company — we’re a crew of passionate, fun-loving pros who turn events into unforgettable experiences. If you want to love where you work, and who you work with, welcome home.

Here’s a taste of what makes Footers the coolest place ever to build your career:

• Daily Team Lunches & Beverages – Gather with your Footers family every weekday for a delicious, upcycled lunch in the FABTIGERS Den—plus plenty of laughter, birthday celebrations, and friendly competition.
• Culture Club Events – From the Footers Olympics to the Holiday Lip Sync Battle, we work hard and play even harder.
• Annual Footers Vacation – Travel with the team (often to sunny Mexico!) and receive a company contribution toward your trip.
• Jimmy Bucks Recognition – Get rewarded for going above and beyond with swag, prizes, and more.
• Giving Back – We match employee donations on Colorado Gives Day to make an even bigger impact together.
• Health Reimbursement* – Receive up to $250/month toward your qualified health insurance premium.
• Paid Time Off* – Earn up to 60 hours of PTO annually to recharge, travel, or just have a day to yourself.
• Leadership Development* – Eligible team members can join our leadership bootcamp and monthly growth sessions to sharpen skills and define your leadership style.
• Menu & Rental Discounts* – Throw your own unforgettable event with special perks.

* Dependent on full-time and leadership status with the company

Our mission is simple:

Love What You Do

Make It Better Every Day

Create Exceptional Experiences