Head Chef & Cook
Job Description
The Opportunity
our skills should speak for themselves — and so should your identity. This opportunity is designed for experienced culinary professionals seeking a transparent pathway to connect their verified experience with genuine hospitality employment opportunities in Victoria.
We are seeking an accomplished Head Chef to take a leading role in launching and shaping a new Italian-inspired dining operation, along with skilled Chefs, Cooks and experienced Kitchen Hands to form the wider kitchen team.
Through a verified employment-focused recruitment process, suitable applicants have the opportunity to present their professional background, culinary capability and relevant experience clearly to the hiring business. This creates a stronger connection between genuine employers and qualified hospitality professionals.
The successful Head Chef will provide hands-on kitchen leadership while helping establish the food standards, team culture and operational direction of the venue. Other successful candidates will contribute to delivering consistent, high-quality food service as part of the opening kitchen team.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading and supporting kitchen teams to deliver professional and efficient service
- Preparing and cooking Italian and European-inspired dishes to a consistently high standard
- Maintaining food quality, presentation, taste and portion consistency
- Developing menus, recipes, specials and seasonal dishes
- Managing food costing, ordering, purchasing and stock control
- Monitoring kitchen expenditure and supporting effective labour management
- Training, mentoring and developing junior kitchen team members
- Preparing and coordinating staff rosters where required
- Maintaining high standards of food safety, hygiene and workplace compliance
- Supporting smooth and efficient kitchen operations during busy service periods
- Assisting with food preparation, storage, stock rotation and kitchen organisation
- Working closely with management and colleagues to achieve operational and service standards
- Maintaining a clean, safe and well-organised commercial kitchen environment
Requirements & Eligibility
- Demonstrated and verifiable commercial kitchen experience relevant to the position
- Minimum 3 years of senior culinary or Head Chef experience for Head Chef applicants
- Previous experience in Chef, Cook or commercial kitchen roles for other available positions
- Experience with Italian or modern European cuisine is highly regarded
- Relevant culinary qualifications, trade certificates or recognised training are advantageous
- Ability to provide clear evidence of employment history, skills and relevant professional experience
- Strong leadership and communication skills for senior kitchen positions
- Knowledge of food costing, stock management and commercial kitchen operations
- Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced and high-pressure service environment
- Commitment to food quality, consistency and professional presentation
- Strong understanding of food safety, hygiene and workplace standards
- Reliable, organised and team-focused approach
- Availability to work required hospitality shifts, including evenings and weekends
Special Instructions
Eligible applicants may be considered for employer sponsorship based on skills, experience and applicable visa requirements
Sponsorship & Employer Details
Location: Ballarat, Ballarat & Central Highlands VIC, Australia
Status: Accredited Employer (NZ)