Full Time Chef

Bentleigh RSL Sub Branch; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5 Weeks Annual Leave

RDOs for Public Holidays

Professional growth opportunities

Kitchen training and support

Inclusive workplace

Job summary

Bentleigh RSL Sub Branch is looking for a motivated Chef to join our busy bistro operation, preparing meals for a 200-seat dining space and working closely with the Head Chef and kitchen crew.

You will lead kitchen operations, supervise staff, maintain HACCP standards, assist with menu development, and ensure high-quality service in a welcoming, community-focused venue.

Qualifications

• A qualified cook or chef (certificate or diploma preferred) with prior experience in a busy, high-volume environment.
• Sound knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen operations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook, and present menu items in line with recipe standards and plating guidelines
• Assist with menu development, specials, and seasonal changes
• Monitor food quality, taste, and portion control
• Supervise and mentor kitchen staff, including kitchenhands and dishwashers
• Coordinate with front-of-house staff to ensure timely, accurate meal service
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, safety, and hygiene (e.g. HACCP, food handling)
• Assist with ordering, stock rotation, waste control, and inventory management
• Help with deliveries, receiving and storing supplies
• Support in kitchen setup, closing duties, and continual improvement

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Education

Certificate or Diploma in Cookery/Chef

Job description

About the Role

Bentleigh RSL is looking for a motivated, skilled, and reliable Chef to join our busy bistro operation. You’ll play a key role in preparing and presenting meals to high standards for our 200‑seat dining space. You’ll work closely with the Head Chef, and kitchen crew to ensure excellent food quality, smooth service flow, and a welcoming guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare, cook, and present menu items in line with recipe standards and plating guidelines

Assist with menu development, specials, and seasonal changes

Monitor food quality, taste, and portion control

Supervise and mentor kitchen staff, including kitchenhands and dishwashers

Coordinate with front-of-house staff to ensure timely, accurate meal service

Maintain high standards of cleanliness, safety, and hygiene (e.g. HACCP, food handling)

Assist with ordering, stock rotation, waste control, and inventory management

Help with deliveries, receiving and storing supplies

Support in kitchen setup, closing duties, and continual improvement

Who We’re Looking For

A qualified cook or chef (certificate or diploma preferred) with prior experience in a busy, high-volume environment

Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and consistency in food execution

Leadership ability and a collaborative spirit – someone who works well within a team

Reliability, professionalism, and a strong work ethic

Passion for hospitality and delivering a quality dining experience

Sound knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen operations

What’s In It For You

Work in a well-established, community‑oriented organisation

Flexibility in rostering to help you maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life

5 Weeks Annual Leave per year

RDO's for Public Holidays

Opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and career progression

Training and support in all areas of the kitchen

A positive, inclusive workplace where your input is valued

A Day in This Role Might Include:

Coordinating with the Head Chef/ Sous Chef on menu specials or daily changes

Preparing mise en place and ensuring ingredients are ready

Cooking and plating orders during peak service times

Monitoring supplies and alerting for reordering

Overseeing kitchenhands/dishwashers and ensuring workflow efficiency

Assisting with cleaning, kitchen maintenance, and health & safety practices

Who Should Apply?

If you’re passionate about food, willing to roll up your sleeves, and thrive in a fast-paced kitchen environment, we want to hear from you. Experience is a plus—but more importantly, we seek someone with a positive attitude, eagerness to learn, and pride in their work.