Executive Sous Chef

Mackay Regional Council; Mackay Regional; On-site; AUD 81,443 - 88,443; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Base salary of $81,443 - $88,443

Access to social clubs and health initiatives

Opportunities for leadership and impact

Job summary

A regional council in Queensland is seeking an experienced Executive Sous Chef to lead kitchen operations at multiple venues. The role demands hands-on leadership, mentor kitchen teams, and maintain top food safety standards while managing diverse kitchen activities. Candidates should have a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, a minimum of 5 years in a leadership role, and strong knowledge of cost control. This role involves event-driven duties and operates within a supportive, safety-focused workplace environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years proven experience leading commercial kitchen teams.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining professionalism.
• QLD C Class Driver Licence or interstate equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Chef with overall kitchen management.
• Supervise, train and mentor kitchen staff.
• Manage rosters, stock control, and cost efficiency.

Skills

Leadership and mentorship

Food safety knowledge

Cost control

Event food preparation

Education

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery

Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA)

Tools

Hospitality systems (EBMS, etc.)

Job description

Are you an experienced kitchen leader who thrives in a fast-paced, event-driven environment? Mackay Regional Council is looking for an Executive Sous Chef to support the Executive Chef and help lead kitchen operations across MECC, Foodspace and BB Print Stadium.

This is a hands‑on leadership role where you’ll mentor teams, maintain high food standards and ensure seamless delivery for a wide range of functions and events.

As Executive Sous Chef, you will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the kitchen, including:

• Supporting the Executive Chef with overall kitchen management
• Supervising, training and mentoring kitchen staff
• Overseeing food preparation, production and presentation for events
• Managing rosters, stock control, portion control and cost efficiency
• Ensuring compliance with HACCP, food safety and hygiene standards
• Maintaining safe work practices and use of kitchen equipment
• Contributing to operational policies, procedures and sustainability initiatives

This role involves after‑hours and on‑call work in line with event requirements.

About You

To be successful, you will have:

• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
• Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certification
• Minimum 5 years proven experience leading and supervising commercial kitchen teams
• Experience in food and beverage preparation for functions and events
• Strong cost control and organisational skills
• Sound knowledge of food safety legislation and WH&S
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining professionalism
• Broad knowledge of cuisine and cooking techniques
• QLD C Class Driver Licence (or interstate equivalent)
• First Aid and/or Warden accreditation (or ability to obtain)
• Experience with hospitality systems such as EBMS or Cooking the Books
• Knowledge of event operations and waste reduction practices

Why Join Us?

• Base annual salary of $81,443 - $88,443
• Be part of a high-performing team delivering major events and community experiences
• Varied, dynamic work – no two events are the same
• Opportunity to lead, influence and make a real impact
• Supportive and safety-focused workplace
• Access to social clubs, EAP, health & wellbeing initiatives, corporate discounts

How to Apply

If you’re passionate about food, leadership and events, we’d love to hear from you.

Please submit your cover letter and resume today!

Applications close: Thursday, 26 March 2026.

To be considered for this position, all candidates must have the appropriate working rights for Australia. Your Australian work rights will be verified during the recruitment process.

Applicants who progress beyond the interview stage will be required to undergo a pre-employment process, which includes comprehensive Pre-Employment Medical Assessments (inclusive of Drug and Alcohol testing).

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, where all applicants are treated fairly and respectfully and have equal access to all available opportunities. At Mackay Regional Council, diversity is about creating a respectful and inclusive workplace that recognises our employees' unique contributions and perspectives, working together to deliver extraordinary results.