Chef Full Time

Position: Chef

Position Type: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: $76,000 to $79,000 plus superannuation per annum

Location: Greensborough VIC 3088

Our client is seeking an experienced Chef to lead kitchen operations and maintain their high standards of food quality, presentation, and customer satisfaction. The successful applicant will oversee all food preparation, kitchen team management, menu development, cost control, and compliance with food safety standards. This role is critical to delivering our brand promise of quality breakfast, lunch, and premium coffee offerings in a modern café environment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Kitchen Operations & Food Preparation

• Lead and oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring consistency with the company brand standards and menu specifications
• Prepare and cook meals in accordance with approved recipes and presentation standards
• Maintain high standards of food quality, portion control, and presentation
• Manage inventory of food supplies and kitchen equipment
• Implement cost control measures while maintaining food quality standards

Team Management & Training

• Supervise, train, and mentor kitchen staff including sous chefs and kitchen assistants
• Develop and implement training programs for new staff
• Foster a positive, safety-conscious kitchen culture
• Schedule kitchen staff and manage workflow to meet service demands
• Conduct performance reviews and provide constructive feedback

Menu Development & Innovation

• Contribute to menu development and seasonal menu updates in consultation with management
• Create new dishes that align with café concept and customer preferences
• Adapt menu based on customer feedback and market trends
• Maintain recipe standards and documentation

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations and OH&S requirements
• Maintain HACCP and food handling compliance standards
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in all kitchen areas
• Manage food waste and sustainability practices
• Keep up-to-date with food safety certifications and training

Financial Management

• Monitor and manage food costs within budget parameters
• Manage supplier relationships and food purchasing
• Contribute to profitability through waste reduction and efficient operations
• Report on key performance metrics to management

Key Selection Criteria

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Certificate III and IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent culinary qualification and Diploma in Hospitality
• Minimum three (3) years experience as a Chef in a fast-casual or café environment
• Demonstrated experience managing kitchen operations and leading kitchen teams
• Experience in a high-volume café or restaurant environment
• Current Food Safety Supervisor certificate or equivalent
• Current Barista certification is desirable
• Advanced knowledge of contemporary café/brunch cuisine

Technical Skills & Competencies

• Expert culinary skills with strong knowledge of cooking techniques and food preparation
• Proficiency in using commercial kitchen equipment
• Recipe development and menu planning expertise
• Strong organizational and time management abilities
• Cost control and inventory management experience
• Health and safety compliance knowledge

Personal Attributes

• Leadership capability with proven team management experience
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Attention to detail and quality focus
• Problem-solving and decision-making ability
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities
• Passion for food quality and customer satisfaction
• Ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environment.

Remuneration & Benefits

Salary

• AUD $76,000 – $79,000 per annum (based on experience), in accordance with the Restaurant Industry Award

Benefits

• Superannuation (employer contribution as per legal requirements)
• Staff meals during shifts
• Professional development opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative work environment