About the Role
As Lodge Kitchen Team Leader, you will provide day-to-day supervision of the lodge kitchen team, ensuring efficient kitchen operations and the delivery of excellent food services for residents. You will work closely with the Food Services Manager, who holds overall responsibility for menus, budgeting, and food service compliance across Parkwood.
You will play a key role in creating a welcoming dining experience while maintaining compliance with food safety requirements and supporting the smooth running of the kitchen.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Operations
Ensure daily meal preparation and service is delivered to a high standard and in accordance with residents' dietary requirements, as advised by the Charge Nurse or Food Services Manager.
Prepare and coordinate catering for lodge functions, events, and special occasions.
Assist the Food Services Manager with menu planning and development.
Ensure stock ordering and purchasing activities are completed to support efficient kitchen operations.
Manage stock rotation, storage, and inventory control.
Check invoices against delivery dockets and prepare documentation for Food Services Manager approval.
Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and service.
Food Safety & Compliance
Ensure compliance with the Food Control Plan and all relevant food safety requirements.
Maintain exceptional standards of kitchen cleanliness, hygiene, and workplace safety.
Monitor food handling, storage, and preparation practices to ensure safe food production.
Leadership & Team Coordination
Supervise, support, and guide lodge kitchen staff during shifts.
Delegate work effectively to ensure service runs smoothly and efficiently.
Prepare and manage day-to-day kitchen rosters.
Arrange cover for staff absences when required.
Assist with the training, coaching, and development of kitchen team members.
Foster a positive, collaborative, and resident-focused team culture.
About You
You are an experienced chef and people leader who thrives in a busy environment and understands the importance of delivering excellent food service to older people. You are organised, dependable, and able to keep operations running smoothly while maintaining a warm and respectful approach with staff and residents.
Qualifications & Experience
You will have:
New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) or equivalent qualification, or substantial relevant cooking experience combined with a current food safety qualification.
At least three years' experience in a commercial or institutional kitchen environment.
Previous experience leading a shift, team, or kitchen operation.
Experience working within a Food Control Plan framework.
Experience in aged residential care, healthcare, or a similar environment is highly desirable.
An understanding and appreciation of the needs and preferences of older people.
Skills & Attributes
You will demonstrate:
The ability to perform well under pressure and keep meal services running to schedule.
Strong leadership skills and the ability to supervise and train staff with patience, clarity, and respect.
Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
A strong commitment to food safety and quality standards.
A resident-focused approach with a genuine interest in providing exceptional service.
Competence using basic computer applications, including resident management and rostering software.
Hours of Work
This position is generally worked between 8:00am and 5:00pm Monday to Friday, with flexibility required, including some weekend work to support Village and Lodge functions and events.
About us
Parkwood Trust Incorporated is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation in Waikanae on the Kapiti Coast. We operate Parkwood Retirement Village and Parkwood Lodge, which operates rest home and hospital level care. Our residents are at the heart of everything we do, and we know that great care depends on well-supported people.
What We Offer
A meaningful role where your work positively impacts residents every day.
A supportive and collaborative team environment.
Opportunities to contribute ideas and improvements to food services.
The chance to lead a dedicated kitchen team within a well-respected and unique aged care organisation.
Free on-site carparking
If you're an experienced kitchen professional with strong leadership skills and a commitment to delivering outstanding food service, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and become an important part of the Parkwood team. Applications close 17th November 2026. For any enquiries contact [email protected]