Head Chef & Cook
Hospitality · Ballarat, Ballarat & Central Highlands VIC, Australia · Full-Time · $80,000/yr
Victoria: a new restaurant needs its opening kitchen team. The top job is Head Chef, leading the kitchen, setting high standards and helping shape an Italian-inspired menu. Experienced Chefs, Cooks and Kitchen Hands are also needed.
The employer wants demonstrated capability, relevant experience and a reliable work history. Verified, job-ready professionals with a strong background will stand out on skill and experience. Quality, consistency, teamwork and professional standards drive this growing kitchen, so only apply if your record is genuine and can be checked.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure food safety, hygiene and workplace standards are met in a clean, safe and organised kitchen
- Lead and coordinate kitchen operations and staff
- Prepare and present high-quality Italian and European-inspired food to consistent standards of quality, taste and presentation
- Support menu development, recipe preparation, specials and seasonal offerings
- Manage food prep, purchasing, ordering and stock rotation, and monitor stock levels, food costs and kitchen resources
- Support efficient labour planning and kitchen operations, with accurate, consistent kitchen procedures
- Train, guide and support members of the kitchen team
- Work efficiently through busy service periods
- Keep communication between the kitchen and management team effective, and contribute to a positive, professional, team-focused workplace
Requirements & Eligibility
- Relevant, verifiable commercial kitchen experience, with the ability to demonstrate relevant culinary skills and professional experience
- Head Chef applicants: minimum 3 years of senior chef or Head Chef experience
- Other available roles: previous experience as a Chef, Cook or Kitchen Hand
- Italian or modern European cuisine experience is highly regarded
- Relevant culinary qualifications or recognised trade training are advantageous
- Senior positions: strong leadership and communication skills
- Knowledge of food costing, ordering, stock control and kitchen operations
- Ability to keep standards high in a fast-paced environment, plus a strong understanding of food safety and hygiene practices
- Reliable, organised and professional, able to work effectively in a kitchen team, and available for required hospitality shifts including evenings and weekends
- Employer sponsorship may be available for eligible applicants, subject to skills, experience and applicable visa requirements
Apply: [email protected] · WhatsApp