Chef/Cook

The Benson Hotel; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff meal discounts

Employee facilities access

Career development opportunities

Job summary

The Benson Hotel in Cairns, Queensland, is seeking a talented Chef/Cook to join our culinary team on a full-time, part-time or casual basis. Based in Cairns, this role centers on delivering exceptional dining experiences across breakfast and dinner services with regular functions catered.

You will prepare high-quality meals, maintain food safety standards and contribute to our kitchen's creative vision. We welcome applicants from diverse culinary backgrounds seeking a dynamic hospitality

Qualifications

• Proven experience working as a Chef or Cook in a professional kitchen environment.
• Certification or formal training in commercial cookery or hospitality management.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards and kitchen safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook a variety of dishes according to established recipes and presentation standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of your assigned station and cooking equipment.
• Ensure all food is prepared in compliance with health and safety regulations and food hygiene standards.
• Support the Head Chef and senior kitchen staff in food preparation.
• Monitor food quality, portion sizes and consistency across all dishes.
• Collaborate with other kitchen team members to ensure efficient service during busy periods.
• Receive and store ingredients appropriately, checking quality and expiry dates.
• Follow established procedures for food handling, storage and waste management.
• Contribute to maintaining a positive and professional kitchen environment.
• Assist with special events and catering requirements as needed.

Skills

Proven experience

Food safety knowledge

Cooking techniques

Teamwork

Pressure management

Education

Commercial cookery certification

Job description

The Benson Hotel is seeking a talented Chef/Cook to join our culinary team on a full-time, part-time or casual basis, basedon the successful candidate. Based in Cairns QLD, this role is central to delivering exceptional dining experiences to our guests across, breakfast and dinner services with regular functions also catered. As a Chef/Cook, you will be responsible for preparing high-quality meals, maintaining food safety standards, and contributing to the creative vision of our kitchen team. This position offers flexibility whilst allowing you to showcase your culinary skills in a dynamic hospitality environment. We are open to candidates with a variety of culinary backgrounds.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare and cook a variety of dishes according to established recipes and presentation standards
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of your assigned station and cooking equipment
• Ensure all food is prepared in compliance with health and safety regulations and food hygiene standards
• Support the Head Chef and senior kitchen staff in food preparation
• Monitor food quality, portion sizes and consistency across all dishes
• Collaborate with other kitchen team members to ensure efficient service during busy periods
• Receive and store ingredients appropriately, checking quality and expiry dates
• Follow established procedures for food handling, storage and waste management
• Contribute to maintaining a positive and professional kitchen environment
• Assist with special events and catering requirements as needed

What we're looking for

• Proven experience working as a Chef or Cook in a professional kitchen environment
• Certification or formal training in commercial cookery or hospitality management
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards and kitchen safety protocols
• Proficiency in a range of cooking techniques and culinary methods
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet service deadlines
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to food quality
• Strong teamwork and communication skills with the ability to take direction
• Physical capability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks
• Flexibility to work part-time hours, including evenings, weekends and public holidays as required
• Experience with diverse cuisines or specialised cooking methods is advantageous

What we offer

The Benson Hotel is committed to supporting our team members with a range of benefits and opportunities. We provide a welcoming work environment where your skills are valued and your contributions recognised. Our part-time positions offer flexibility to accommodate your personal circumstances. We provide opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement within the hospitality industry. Staff meal discounts and access to employee facilities are available to all team members. We foster a collaborative kitchen culture where creativity and quality are encouraged, and your wellbeing is a priority to us.

About us

The Benson Hotel is a distinguished hospitality establishment located in the heart of Cairns, Queensland. We are committed to delivering outstanding service and exceptional dining experiences to our guests. With a reputation for culinary excellence and warm hospitality, The Benson Hotel is a vibrant workplace where skilled professionals come together to create memorable experiences. Our values centre on quality, teamwork, and a genuine passion for hospitality. We believe in investing in our team and providing an environment where culinary talent can flourish.