Culinary Associate

Farmer Joes Market LLC; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Farmer Joes Market LLC in Melbourne is seeking a versatile kitchen/deli team member to assist with food preparation, cooking, and presentation of fresh meals, salads, sandwiches, and hot foods in a fast-paced store environment.

You will handle customer questions about products, maintain food safety standards, help with inventory, and collaborate with store staff to ensure smooth operations and high-quality food service.

Qualifications

• Fast-paced kitchen or grocery experience preferred but not required.
• Knowledge of food preparation and safe handling is a plus.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Detail-oriented with passion for food quality and presentation.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Food Preparation & Cooking: prepare, cook, and present fresh meals, salads, sandwiches, and hot foods.
• Customer Service: assist customers and provide product recommendations.
• Food Safety & Cleanliness: follow safety guidelines and keep prep areas sanitary.
• Inventory & Stocking: monitor stock levels and assist with restocking.
• Collaboration: work with store team and train new staff on procedures.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Multitasking

Basic math

Attention to detail

Manual dexterity

Physical stamina

Availability flexible

Job description

Description

• Food Preparation & Cooking:
  • Prepare, cook, and present fresh meals, salads, sandwiches, and hot foods according to recipes and store standards.
  • Assist with the daily production of bakery and deli items.
  • Ensure that all food is prepared and presented in an aesthetically pleasing and sanitary manner.
  • Ensure the freshness and quality of ingredients used in meal preparation.
• Customer Service:
  • Assist customers by answering questions regarding food products and making recommendations.
  • Provide excellent customer service by engaging with customers in a friendly and professional manner.
  • Address customer concerns or complaints promptly and professionally.
• Food Safety & Cleanliness:
  • Follow food safety guidelines, including proper handling, storage, and labeling of food products.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment by adhering to food safety standards and keeping cooking and prep areas sanitary.
  • Regularly clean kitchen equipment, tools, and surfaces to maintain a safe and hygienic workspace.
• Inventory & Stocking:
  • Assist with inventory control by monitoring stock levels and helping with restocking of ingredients and culinary supplies.
  • Report any inventory shortages or quality issues to the Department Manager.
• Collaboration:
  • Work closely with other culinary associates and store team members to ensure smooth operations in the department.
  • Support and train new staff on culinary procedures and store policies.

Requirements

• Experience:
• Previous experience in a kitchen, deli, or grocery store setting is preferred but not required.
• Knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and safe food handling practices is a plus.
• Skills & Abilities:
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Basic math skills for measuring ingredients and tracking inventory.
• Ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and a passion for food quality and presentation.
• Manual Dexterity: Ability to perform precise and repetitive tasks, such as chopping, slicing, and operating kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
• Physical Requirements:
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 lbs.
• Ability to work in hot and cold environments (e.g., kitchen, refrigeration units).
• Availability:
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, may be required.