Head Chef

Cinque Terra Restaurant is an Italian restaurant, based in Chadstone shopping centre, VIC. They are looking for a talented, hardworking, experienced and skilled Chef to join their team on full-time basis. Primary objective To contribute to the smooth operation of the kitchen by performing cooking and food preparation duties. The Chef will be responsible for preparing and presenting a variety of hot and cold dishes, including entrées, mains, and desserts, tailored for dine-in services. This role encompasses planning, organizing, and supervising all aspects of food preparation and cooking to ensure high-quality service and customer satisfaction. Main Responsibilities Menu Planning: Develop menus considering seasonality, dietary requirements, and cost-effectiveness. Recipe Development: Create new dishes or modify existing recipes to maintain innovation. Food Safety: Ensure compliance with food safety standards. Cost Control: Ensure dishes meet standards for taste and presentation while managing expenses. Staff Training: Mentor and develop kitchen staff to maintain high performance. Industry Trends: Stay updated on food trends and industry developments. Inventory Management: Monitor stock levels, place orders, and manage inventory effectively. Collaboration: Discuss food preparation issues with managers and staff. Supervision: Provide guidance and direction for kitchen operations. Communication: Maintain clear and professional communication with staff. Presentation: Ensure meals are visually appealing and served at the correct temperature. Stock Management: Promptly store received goods and supplies to maintain efficiency. Tasks Develop new dishes and plan menus considering preparation cost including labour cost. Order and maintain food inventory, supplies and equipment. Inspect supplies, equipment, and work areas for cleanliness and functionality. Train staff and enforce hygiene requirements at all areas of kitchen. Maintain quality of all menu items at all stages of cooking and preparation. Develop and maintain presentation of dishes. Ensure any staff issues are resolved fairly and quickly. Train cooks and kitchen staff on different cooking techniques and methods. Participate in management meetings and contribute to issues relating to food preparation and staff training. Participate in preparation of cooking of dishes. Preparing and cooking in a timely manner. Supervise and coordinate activities of cooks and other food preparation staff. Roster kitchen staff. Ensuring that all food produce by restaurant has been stored and prepared in accordance with the approved standards. Food has been produced from the menu using a standard recipe and complies in all respects with regulatory requirements, including the Australian Food Safety requirements. Being attentive to special requests from wait staff. Occupational safety and health Ensure compliance with all food safety and hygiene regulations, including maintaining a clean and sanitary kitchen environment. Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, aprons, and non-slip shoes as required. Maintain awareness of fire safety procedures, including the proper use of fire extinguishers and knowledge of emergency exits. Safely operate and maintain kitchen equipment, ensuring that all staff follow correct procedures for handling and cleaning machinery. Report and address any hazards or risks in the kitchen promptly to prevent accidents and injuries. Implement proper lifting techniques when handling heavy items to avoid injury. Ensure proper food storage and temperature controls to minimize health risks such as foodborne illnesses. Complies with all legislation, facility policies and procedures pertaining to occupational safety and health. Acts as a role model of correct occupational safety and health behaviours. Qualifications / experience Experience in similar setting is essential. AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma. Or three years of full-time experience in similar role to substitute the formal qualification. Ability to communicate in spoken and written English. You must be an Australian Citizen / Permanent Resident or have proper working rights. Personal Attributes High level of personal hygiene and cleanliness. Passion for cooking and the culinary arts. Dedication to service excellence and customer satisfaction.Friendly and approachable demeanour. Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure. Strong leadership skills with the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team. Salary - $76,000 - $80,000 plus super The suitable candidate will have excellent multitasking, creativity and culinary skills. Only eligible and shortlisted applicants will be contacted. #J-18808-Ljbffr