CHEF - Full time

Work Initiatives; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 80,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Bar-B-Q Nation in Melbourne is seeking a skilled Chef to lead kitchen operations, craft authentic Indian dishes, and manage a high-standard culinary team. The role emphasizes quality, cost control, and a seamless service experience in a vibrant dining setting.

The successful candidate will oversee menu development, train junior staff, and ensure food safety while delivering a memorable barbecue-inspired experience for guests in Melbourne.

Qualifications

• Culinary qualifications from a recognised institution.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Chef or 3 years in a similar role (including apprenticeship).
• Demonstrated skills in traditional Indian cuisine preparation.
• Ability to lead and motivate kitchen staff.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to cleanliness and safety.

Responsibilities

• Manage kitchen operations and supervise food preparation activities.
• Ensure food quality by adhering to established standards and recipes.
• Create menu items that reflect traditional Indian cuisine.
• Develop and implement effective kitchen processes and workflows.
• Prepare meals from scratch using authentic, high-quality ingredients.
• Handle and store food to prevent contamination and ensure safety.
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff on cooking techniques.
• Collaborate with management on menu planning and development.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and cleanliness for efficient operations.
• Optimise ingredient use to reduce food waste and manage costs.
• Respond to dietary needs, offering tailored dishes to customers.
• Monitor line processes to ensure consistent dish presentation.
• Place orders for kitchen supplies to maintain stock levels.
• Implement cost-effective measures for food production.
• Participate in food tastings and provide feedback for improvement.

Skills

Culinary qualification

Kitchen leadership

Traditional Indian cuisine

Food safety

Evening/weekend flexibility

Recipe adherence

Education

Culinary qualifications from a recognised institution

Job description

Job Type: Permanent position | Full time position

Job Description

Mahadev Hospitality Pty Ltd Summary Bar-B-Q Nation is seeking to add a talented Chef to their team. With a legacy built on quality and creativity, we've now expanded our passion to a state-of-the-art frozen food and snack production factory and opening of our exquisite fine dining restaurant. At Bar-B-Q Nation, we pride ourselves on the freshness of our ingredients, ensuring every bite bursts with flavour.

Our unique dining concept features a charcoal BBQ on every table, allowing you to grill your selections to perfection right in front of you. Enjoy an endless culinary journey with our unlimited food offering for two hours, making every meal a celebration of taste and togetherness. With only two time slots available, we encourage our guests to book in advance online to secure their spot and avoid disappointment.

We welcome you to an unforgettable dining experience, where the artistry of BBQ meets unparalleled freshness.

Benefits

Full-time position (38 hours per week). Weekend and public holiday availability required.

Opportunities for skill development and progression within the cafe.

Task & responsibilities

• Manage kitchen operations and supervise food preparation activities.
• Ensure food quality by adhering to established standards and recipes.
• Create menu items that reflect traditional Indian cuisine.
• Develop and implement effective kitchen processes and workflows.
• Prepare meals from scratch using authentic, high-quality ingredients.
• Handle and store food to prevent contamination and ensure safety.
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff on cooking techniques.
• Collaborate with management on menu planning and development.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and cleanliness for efficient operations.
• Optimise ingredient use to reduce food waste and manage costs.
• Respond to dietary needs, offering tailored dishes to customers.
• Monitor line processes to ensure consistent dish presentation.
• Place orders for kitchen supplies to maintain stock levels.
• Implement cost-effective measures for food production.
• Participate in food tastings and provide feedback for improvement.

Qualification & experience

• Culinary qualifications from a recognised institution required.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a Chef role or at least 3 years in a similar position (including apprenticeship).
• Demonstrated skills in traditional Indian cuisine preparation.
• Ability to lead and motivate kitchen staff effectively.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to cleanliness and safety.
• Flexible availability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Experience in menu planning and ingredient cost optimisation.

Personal Attributes Reliable, punctual, and committed to consistency. Positive attitude with a strong work ethic. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Attention to detail in both flavour and presentation. Adaptable and open to feedback. Due to the volume of applicants, only those meeting the minimum standards will be considered and only successful candidates will be contacted.

Thank you for your interest in the role. About Company Welcome to Bar-B-Q Nation Here culinary innovation meets the warmth of tradition!

Nestled in the heart of Werribee, Bar-B-Q Nation is the brainchild of the creators of one of Melbourne’s pioneering Indian food trucks, Dilli6, which delighted food lovers for a decade. With a legacy built on quality and creativity, we've now expanded our passion to a state-of-the-art frozen food and snack production factory and opening of our exquisite fine dining restaurant. At Bar-B-Q Nation, we pride ourselves on the freshness of our ingredients, ensuring every bite bursts with flavour.

Our unique dining concept features a charcoal BBQ on every table, allowing you to grill your selections to perfection right in front of you. Enjoy an endless culinary journey with our unlimited food offering for two hours, making every meal a celebration of taste and togetherness. With only two time slots available, we encourage our guests to book in advance online to secure their spot and avoid disappointment.

We welcome you to an unforgettable dining experience, where the artistry of BBQ meets unparalleled freshness.

Bar-B-Q Nation—your new Favorite dining destination! Work Type: Full time Salary: $80000-85000 Job Publish: 13-10-2026 Job Expire: 12-11-2026