Introducing the National Arts Centre The National Arts Centre (NAC) is Canada's bilingual, multi-disciplinary home for the performing arts. The NAC presents, creates, produces, and co-produces performing arts programming in various streams-the NAC Orchestra, Dance, English Theatre, French Theatre, Indigenous Theatre, and Popular Music and Variety-and nurtures the next generation of audiences and artists from across Canada. The NAC is located in the National Capital Region on the unceded territory of the Anishinabe Algonquin Nation.

At the National Arts Centre, we believe the performing arts are vital to the human experience. A house of dreams for the Canadian performing arts, we work with artists and arts organizations from across this land to revitalize our sector.

Curious to learn more? Read our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, The Journey Ahead.

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Anti-Racism and Accessibility

We are on a journey, committed to ensuring that equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, anti-racism and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples will guide our actions.

The NAC welcomes applications from candidates who can help us meet our vision, and contribute to the diversity of lived experiences, perspectives, and approaches. When you join the NAC, you will be part of an inclusive community working hard to dismantle barriers to employees' well-being, access, potential, and success. The NAC actively seeks candidates who identify as women, Indigenous, Black, Persons of Colour (IBPoC), members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and people with disabilities.

We encourage you to self-identify in the recruitment process.





Job Number: J0926-0349

Job Title: FIRST COOK

Employment Type: Part-Time continuing

Job Category: Hospitality

Open Positions: 2

Posting Date: September 14, 2026

Closing Date: October 11, 2026

Salary: $26.29 - $26.29/Hour

Language Requirement: Bilingual is an asset

Working Hours: Mornings, afternoons, evenings, holidays and weekends

Job Reports To: Executive Sous Chef

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Key Activities

The First Cook is accountable for the preparation and line service for our restaurant 1 Elgin, banquets, Leighton Green Room, Intermission bars, and other catering services provided by the NAC Kitchen. This position reports to the Executive Sous Chef.

Skill Requirements

- Completion of a recognized culinary diploma;
- Red Seal certification would be an asset;
- Extensive knowledge of food preparation, including a minimum of three (3) years of experience in a similar position;
- Comprehension of, and ability to produce detailed task lists and to catalogue food items ready for service;
- Proven ability to delegate work to a team of four (4) or more individuals;
- Physical work will be required;
- Must be able to lift up to 30 to 50 lbs on a regular basis;




- Must be able to push/pull carts weighing up to 100lbs;
- Must be able to stand & exert well-paced mobility for up to 12 hours;
- Available to work an irregular work schedule;
- Creative and energetic;
- Ability to work under pressure and remain calm in a very busy setting;
- Ability to communicate orally in both official languages would be an asset;
- A past record of satisfactory attendance and punctuality is a requirement.*
- Regular attendance at work is an expectation of employment and an essential part of every job.

Who Can Apply

Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad. Preference will be given to Canadian citizens. As part of NAC's interview process, in-person interviews may be required. Please ensure to have the most up-to-date information on your résumé including your current email address.

While we appreciate all applications, only those selected for an interview will be contacted by us.

Important Notice

The National Arts Centre (NAC) is committed to inclusive employee recruitment and selection. The NAC welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. If you require accommodation during the selection process, please inform us as soon as possible and we will make every effort to fulfill your accommodation request. The successful candidate will be required to provide the original or a true certified copy of their education credentials as appropriate, along with proof of a valid Criminal Background Check as a condition of employment.

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📌 FIRST COOK (Ottawa)
🏢 National Arts Centre
📍 Ottawa