At Oxley’s Bar & Kitchen, our mission is simple: to serve great food, pour cold drinks, and create the kind of atmosphere people want to come back to. We aim to be Picton’s favourite gathering place—where locals and visitors come together to relax, connect, and enjoy the best of Marlborough hospitality.
We live by our guiding principles: serving Tasty Fresh Food, delivering Kind and Fun Hospitality, and maintaining a supportive workplace. As part of our team, you will have a unique opportunity to learn the actual business of hospitality and build a long-term culinary career with experienced mentors.
The Role
We are looking for an enthusiastic, driven Commis Chef to join our team. Reporting to the Head Chef and Sous Chef, you will assist with the day-to-day running of the kitchen and learn how to coordinate and run a specific production section.
This is an ideal role for a passionate cook who is eager to absorb knowledge, follow instructions closely, and sharpen their skills in a professional, encouraging environment. This is a fixed term position, due to the summer season.
Key Responsibilities
You will be an integral part of our crew, responsible for:
Quality & Consistency: Follow established recipes and kitchen systems precisely to ensure consistent results for our guests.
Section Readiness: Coordinate your assigned section for production, ensuring your prep is completed to standard and you are fully prepared for a busy service.
Stock & Smart Operations: Take care of your ingredients and partake in regular stocktakes to keep our kitchen running efficiently.
Food Safety First: Maintain our Food Control Plan in strict accordance with daily health and safety regulations to keep our workspace safe, clean, and compliant.
Active Learning & Growth: Proactively seek advice and mentoring from our senior chef team to build up your culinary knowledge and skills.
Positive Environment: Bring a collaborative and positive attitude to the line every single shift, supporting a great team dynamic.
Our Standards & Expectations
To thrive in this role, you will be expected to meet our core standards:
Reliability: Show up on time, prepared, and ready to support your teammates every shift.
Organisation: Keep your workspace pristine, manage your prep efficiently, and stay structured during peak rushes.
Working Under Pressure: Maintain your composure, accuracy, and positive attitude when the docket printer starts flying during a busy service.
What We Are Looking For
Basic commercial kitchen experience with a strong foundational knowledge of food prep.
A genuine desire to learn and take on feedback from senior chefs.
Outstanding time management, reliability, and high standards of personal hygiene.
A team player who aligns with our vision of community, connection, and great hospitality.
What’s in it for You?
Real Career Development: Learn the business of hospitality from experienced mentors in a structured training environment.
Supportive & Fun Culture: Work in a kitchen where your hard work is valued and the team dynamic is genuinely positive.
Community Pride: Be a part of Picton’s favourite gathering place.
Competitive hourly rates.
How to Apply
Come join the Oxley’s team!