Demi Chef

Opal Healthcare; Cumberland; On-site; AUD 43,000 - 46,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Career development programs

Scholarship opportunities up to AU$15,

Supportive team environment

Meaningful work for residents

Career progression opportunities

Structured kitchen operations

Job summary

Opal Healthcare in Lidcombe, Sydney’s west, is seeking a Demi Chef to support the Head Chef and catering team. You will help prepare meals, meet dietary requirements and ensure food safety in a 60‑bed care community.

The role offers a permanent part-time position with Saturday and Sunday rosters from 9am to 5pm, with a base rate of 31.36–33.05 AUD per hour + penalties and 12% superannuation.

Qualifications

• Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent.
• Experience in a commercial kitchen; aged care, healthcare or large‑scale catering experience is highly regarded.
• Sound knowledge of food safety, hygiene and safe food handling practices.
• Willingness to obtain or maintain required checks (e.g., National Police Check).

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and present nutritious meals for residents in line with menus and dietary needs.
• Support the Head Chef and Sous Chef with daily kitchen operations, including preparation, service and cleaning tasks.
• Assist with texture‑modified meals and special diets as directed.
• Maintain high standards of food safety and kitchen hygiene.
• Contribute to a positive dining experience that respects resident choice and wellbeing.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Time management

Education

Certificate III/IV in Commercial Cookery

Job description

Nestled within the vibrant and culturally diverse suburb of Lidcombe in Sydney's west, our warm and close-knit Care Community is conveniently located close to local shops, restaurants, cafés and transport links. Reflecting the rich multicultural fabric of the local area, our 60-bed care community offers a familiar, welcoming environment where we take the time to understand our residents’ diverse backgrounds and experiences.

About the Role

• $31.36 - $33.05 base rate (DOE) + Penalty rates for weekends and public holidays, plus 12% superannuation.
• Permanent Part-Time opportunity
• Saturday & Sunday roster
• 9am – 5pm

As a Demi Chef, you will support the Head Chef and broader catering team with day-to-day kitchen operations, food preparation and meal service. You will help ensure meals are prepared to a high standard, meet dietary and texture-modified requirements, and are delivered in line with food safety and hygiene standards.

What We Offer

• Dedicated mentoring & internal/external career development programs to build and accelerate your career - Masterclasses, training, and a clear pathway to Sous Chef, Emerging Leadership Programs, Senior Leaders programs and more via our very own Opal Healthcare Academy https://academy.opalhealthcare.com.au/
• Sponsored study & training along with Scholarship opportunities of up to $15,000 for further education & training through local & national University, TAFE & RTO partnerships
• A supportive, values-led team environment.
• Meaningful work where your skills make a daily difference to residents.
• Opportunities for learning, development and career progression.
• Structured kitchen operations and a focus on quality, safety and resident experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and present nutritious meals for residents in line with menus, dietary needs and individual preferences.
• Support the Head Chef and Sous Chef with daily kitchen operations, including preparation, service and cleaning tasks.
• Assist with texture-modified meals, special diets and allergy requirements as directed.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, kitchen hygiene and infection control.
• Contribute to a positive dining experience that promotes resident choice, dignity and wellbeing.

About You

• Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery, or equivalent experience.
• Experience working in a commercial kitchen; aged care, healthcare or large-scale catering experience is highly regarded.
• Sound knowledge of food safety, hygiene and safe food handling practices.
• Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to follow menus, recipes and dietary requirements with care and attention to detail.
• A passion for food and a genuine desire to learn and take on more responsibility.
• Strong teamwork, communication and time-management skills.
• A genuine passion for providing quality food and service to older people.
• Willingness to obtain or maintain required checks, including a National Police Check and any relevant pre-employment clearances.
• Ability to complete pre-employment medical, National Police Check and NDIS Worker Screening Check.