Location: Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty
Occupation: 351311 Chef
ANZSCO Skill Level: 2
We are looking for an experienced and passionate Chef to join our team in a busy and vibrant café in the heart of Mount Maunganui.
This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced café environment, takes pride in producing consistently high-quality food, and works well as part of a close-knit team.
Knowledge of French language, cuisine and culture would be highly desirable, reflecting the character and concept of our café.
About the Role
As our Chef, you will be responsible for the preparation, cooking and presentation of food while helping ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the kitchen.
Your key responsibilities will include:
Planning and contributing to the development of menus and new dishes
Preparing and cooking food to a consistently high standard
Ensuring attractive and consistent presentation of all dishes
Monitoring the quality of food at all stages of preparation and presentation
Estimating food requirements, food costs and assisting with labour cost control
Ordering food, ingredients and kitchen supplies
Monitoring stock levels and minimising food waste
Ensuring correct storage, rotation and preservation of food
Maintaining portion control and consistency
Working closely with management, front-of-house staff and other kitchen team members
Discussing and resolving food preparation and service issues with management and the wider team
Demonstrating cooking techniques and advising team members on preparation and cooking procedures
Helping develop and maintain efficient kitchen procedures
Ensuring the kitchen and food preparation areas are kept clean, organised and safe
Explaining, implementing and enforcing food hygiene and food safety requirements
Ensuring compliance with applicable New Zealand food safety, health and safety, and workplace standards
Assisting with the selection, training and supervision of kitchen staff where required
Supporting the team during busy service periods and ensuring food is delivered efficiently and on time
Accommodating dietary requirements and maintaining appropriate awareness of allergens and cross-contamination
About You
We are looking for someone who is professional, reliable and passionate about food and hospitality.
To be successful in this position, you should have:
A relevant NZQF Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2) or equivalent culinary qualification, or
At least three years of relevant professional chef experience in place of a formal qualification
Proven experience preparing and cooking food in a professional café, restaurant or similar hospitality environment
Strong knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques and kitchen operations
Good knowledge of New Zealand food hygiene and food safety requirements
An understanding of allergen management and safe food handling practices
The ability to maintain consistent food quality and presentation
Good organisational and time-management skills
The ability to work efficiently under pressure during busy service periods
Strong communication and teamwork skills
A positive, professional and reliable attitude
The ability to work independently as well as part of a team
Attention to detail and pride in maintaining a clean and well-organised kitchen
Flexibility to work rostered shifts, including weekends and public holidays where required
The legal right to work in New Zealand
Highly Desirable
Knowledge of French cuisine and food culture
Knowledge of the French language
Previous experience in a busy café environment
Experience with menu development and food costing
Experience training or supervising other kitchen staff
An interest in creating fresh, high-quality café food and developing new menu ideas
What We Offer
You will be joining a friendly and international team in a busy café environment in one of New Zealand's most popular coastal destinations.
We offer:
A varied and hands-on Chef position
The opportunity to contribute ideas and influence menu development
A supportive and multicultural working environment
A central Mount Maunganui location
Competitive remuneration based on qualifications and experience between $30 and $35 per Hour
Permanent-Full Time Role with a minimum of 30 hours per week (Work Flexibility required – Roster Monday to Sunday – 6am to 4pm)
The opportunity to become an important part of a growing and established local café
If you are an experienced Chef who enjoys quality food, busy café service and working as part of a motivated team, we would like to hear from you.
Please apply through SEEK with your CV and a short cover letter outlining your relevant experience, qualifications and current New Zealand work eligibility.