Location: Manitou House – Winnipeg, Manitoba

Reports To: Manitou House Pathfinder

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $60,000.00 anually

Position Summary The Culinary Pathfinder is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, planning, and development of food services at Manitou House. This role ensures that relatives receive nutritious, balanced, and culturally appropriate meals while maintaining high standards of food safety, cleanliness, and kitchen operations.

Working collaboratively with the Manitou House Pathfinder, the Culinary Pathfinder oversees meal planning, food preparation, inventory, budgeting, and kitchen maintenance. The position also provides opportunities for relatives to develop culinary skills, build confidence, and participate in meaningful learning experiences that support their wellness, independence, and personal growth.

Responsible For

Culinary Operations and Meal Planning

- Develop and maintain weekly nutritional meal plans for up to 50 people, including three meals, three snacks, and refreshments daily, while minimizing food waste.
- Plan, prepare, and coordinate meals for special occasions, cultural gatherings, ceremonies, and organizational events.
- Coordinate and prepare meals for weekends and holidays, providing clear instructions to staff responsible for meal preparation and distribution.
- Ensure meals accommodate nutritional requirements, dietary restrictions, cultural preferences, and the individual needs of relatives.
- Maintain consistent standards for food quality, preparation, portioning, and meal service.

Food Safety, Inventory and Kitchen Maintenance

- Ensure compliance with Manitoba Food Safety Standards, workplace health and safety requirements, and applicable NCO policies and procedures.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness, sanitation, food handling, and safe food storage throughout all kitchen and food service areas.
- Coordinate the timely ordering, delivery, and inventory management of food products, supplies, tools, and kitchen equipment.
- Complete routine cleaning and maintenance of kitchen equipment and workspaces, ensuring safe and effective operations.
- Identify equipment concerns and maintenance requirements, submitting work orders to the Manitou House Pathfinder as needed.




- Identify and report potential risks to the safety and wellness of relatives and staff to the Manitou House Pathfinder.

Relative Support and Cultural Connections

- Create a welcoming, respectful, culturally safe, and trauma-informed kitchen environment that supports the dignity and wellness of all relatives.
- Mentor relatives interested in culinary arts, providing opportunities to develop practical cooking, food preparation, and kitchen safety skills.
- Encourage meaningful participation in culinary activities that promote confidence, independence, and personal development.
- Incorporate Indigenous foods, traditional teachings, and culturally appropriate food practices into meal planning and preparation when possible.
- Work collaboratively with Journey Helpers, Pathfinders, and other team members to support the daily needs and wellness of relatives.
- Communicate significant concerns or changes in a relative's behaviour to their assigned Pathfinder or appropriate team member, following established protocols.

Administration, Budgeting and Team Collaboration

- Collaborate with the Manitou House Pathfinder to develop, monitor, and maintain food services budgets and identify departmental requirements.
- Maintain accurate records of food purchases, inventory, meal planning, and departmental activities.
- Provide monthly reports to the Manitou House Pathfinder outlining departmental activities, operational needs, and recommendations by the 14th of each month.
- Provide guidance and direction to staff assisting with meal preparation, kitchen operations, and food distribution.
- Participate in staff meetings, career development, and required training as directed by leadership.
- Follow NCO's Mission Statement, policies, directives, protocols, and applicable Correctional Service Canada (CSC) requirements, and complete other duties assigned by the Manitou House Pathfinder.

Qualifications

Education and Experience





- Minimum of four years of relevant experience and training in the food services industry.
- Experience in meal planning, food preparation, kitchen operations, and inventory management for larger groups.
- Ability to develop and maintain nutritious meal plans while accommodating dietary requirements and managing food costs.
- Experience developing, monitoring, and managing food services budgets.
- Knowledge of Manitoba Food Safety Standards and safe food handling practices, with willingness to complete required certification and training.
- Experience mentoring, teaching, or supporting individuals in culinary skill development is considered an asset.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

- Knowledge and understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, traditional foods, and culturally appropriate dietary practices.
- Understanding of trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and relative-centred approaches to supporting individuals.
- Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities.
- Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, relatives, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community partners.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to maintain accurate documentation and reports.
- Ability to operate kitchen equipment safely and effectively while maintaining food safety and sanitation standards.
- Ability to remain standing for extended periods and safely lift or carry items weighing up to 50 pounds for short distances.

Additional Requirements

- Must hold and maintain a valid Manitoba Class 4 or Class 5 driver's licence.
- Must hold and maintain valid First Aid and CPR certification.
- Must be eligible to obtain and maintain Enhanced Security Clearance.
- Must be willing to participate in ongoing professional development and required food safety training.
- Must demonstrate a commitment to NCO's mission, values, cultural safety, confidentiality, and respectful workplace practices.

Pay: From $60,000.00 per year

Benefits

- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- RRSP match

Work Location: In person

📌 Culinary Pathfinder (Winnipeg)
🏢 Native Clan Organization
📍 Winnipeg