Army - Chef - Nsw

Australian Defence Force; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Australian Defence Force is seeking a Chef to prepare and serve meals for Army, Navy and Air Force personnel. You will plan menus, provision supplies and cook in field kitchens, on ships and in Defence establishments to meet dietary requirements.

Role emphasizes high standards, food safety, and the ability to work under pressure. Responsibilities include mentoring recruits and supporting special events and large-scale feeding in challenging environments.

Qualifications

• Prepare and cook complete meals including soups, entrees, mains, desserts and pastries.
• Ensure meals meet nutritional needs of Defence members.
• Oversee kitchen operations, including ordering, inventory and food safety.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals for service members in field kitchens, ships and bases.
• Cook for functions and events while maintaining high standards and respect for dietary and cultural needs.
• Mentor new recruits in culinary skills and kitchen operations.
• Train others in proper food handling and hygiene.

Skills

Meal preparation

Nutrition

Kitchen management

Field cooking

Training & mentorship

Special events

Disaster response

Job description

Join the team that keeps the Army nourished and fit for duty, acquiring catering skills that include menu planning, provisioning, food prepping, cooking and service.

As a Chef, you’ll have a direct influence on the morale and wellbeing of not only Army members but Navy and Air Force as well. You’ll prepare, cook and serve meals both in field kitchens, Navy vessels and Army establishments to meet the dietary needs of Defence members. Your responsibilities and duties extend far beyond just preparing meals.

Good food is a significant morale booster in the Army. A delicious and nutritious meal can greatly enhance the well-being and spirits of soldiers, especially when they are in challenging environments.

Key Responsibilities

Being a Chef in the ADF involves a combination of culinary skills, logistical know-how, and the ability to perform under pressure. You’ll prepare and cook complete meals consisting of soups, entrees, main courses, sweets, cakes and pastries. It’s a demanding yet rewarding role that directly contributes to the effectiveness and well-being of military members.

On occasions, you’ll also cook for functions. High standards are essential with great pride taken in the preparation of foods according to nutritional, dietary and cultural needs.

• meal preparation -planning, preparing, and cooking meals for service members
• nutrition -ensuring the nutritional needs of soldiers are met
• kitchen management -overseeing kitchen operations including ordering supplies, managing inventory, and ensuring food safety and hygiene standards are met
• field cooking -cooking in field conditions requires adaptability and resourcefulness
• training and mentorship -training new recruits in culinary skills and kitchen operations
• special events -preparing special meals for events, ceremonies, or visiting dignitaries
• disaster and emergency response -feeding large numbers of people, both military and civilians, often under difficult conditions.

Skill & Experience

I am reasonably fit and healthy

Keeping fit is a big part of joining the ADF. You’ll need to pass a physical fitness test before you join, but don’t worry, we’ll give you tips to help you prepare.