Army - Chef - Vic

Australian Defence Force; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Australian Defence Force is seeking a Chef to prepare, cook and serve meals across field kitchens, Navy vessels and Army establishments.

You will plan menus, provisioning, and ensure nutrition and dietary needs are met while maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene. You will also lead kitchen operations and mentor recruits in culinary skills.

Qualifications

• Fitness test required to join the ADF.
• Ability to work under pressure in diverse environments.
• Ability to plan menus that meet nutritional and cultural needs.

Responsibilities

• 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 and food safety.
• 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 and dignitaries.
• disaster and emergency response – feeding large numbers often under difficult conditions.

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.