Head Chef

SmartRecruiters, Inc.; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career growth

Exclusive hotel deals

Global perks

Retail discounts AU/NZ

Wellness programs

Job summary

Minor Hotels, Oaks Cairns Hotel, is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead our kitchen team full-time. You will oversee all culinary operations, drive menu development, and ensure exceptional quality, hygiene, and guest experience.

The role demands strong leadership and cost-control capabilities within a busy hotel setting. Join a global hospitality group committed to growth, training, and delivering outstanding dining experiences.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Chef or senior kitchen leader in hotel/high-volume settings.
• Certificate III/IV in Commercial Cookery.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Financial awareness including cost control and inventory.
• Ability to work under pressure and deliver high quality.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and manage the kitchen team to high performance.
• Oversee meal preparation with top quality and presentation.
• Plan and implement seasonal menus aligned with brand standards.
• Monitor food costs, inventory, and budget targets.
• Ensure WHS/HACCP compliance and a clean kitchen.
• Collaborate with management on rostering and staff development.
• Continuously review operations for efficiency and quality.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team management

Financial awareness

Pressure handling

Culinary passion

Education

Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent

Job description

Minor Hotels is one of Australasia’s largest accommodation providers, managing over 70 properties in the region and a global portfolio of 640 properties across more than 66 countries. Our brands, Anantara, Avani, Oaks, NH Hotels, NH Collection, nhow, and Tivoli, span six continents, including Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe, and South America. Joining Minor means partnering with a diverse, expanding global organisation offering boundless opportunities to thrive and succeed.

Our people are the heart of our success, and we are committed to investing in your skills to support your career growth and advancement. You’ll feel valued as part of a tight-knit team, united in delivering exceptional guest experiences and thriving in a company dedicated to fostering an outstanding workplace culture.

Job Description

Oaks Cairns Hotel are looking for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team on a full-time basis.

This role is essential in overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and service are consistently delivered to guests. The successful candidate will inspire and manage the culinary team, drive menu innovation, and maintain efficient, compliant kitchen operations.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Lead, mentor, and manage the kitchen team to ensure high performance and adherence to standards.
• Oversee the preparation and cooking of meals to consistently high quality and presentation standards.
• Plan, develop, and implement menus, including seasonal and special offerings, in line with guest expectations and brand standards.
• Monitor food costs, inventory, and stock control to maintain budgetary targets.
• Ensure full compliance with Workplace Health and Safety (WHS), HACCP, and all hygiene regulations.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe kitchen environment.
• Collaborate with management to support operational and strategic objectives, including training, rostering, and staff development.
• Continuously review kitchen operations to identify opportunities for efficiency and quality improvement.

Qualifications

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent.
• Proven experience as a Head Chef or in a senior kitchen leadership role within a hotel or high-volume environment.
• Strong knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and modern cuisine trends.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Strong financial awareness, including food cost control and inventory management.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Positive, proactive attitude and genuine passion for delivering exceptional culinary experiences.

Additional Information

At Minor Hotels, we value our people as the heart of our success. Joining Minor means, you’ll enjoy a rewarding package designed to support your professional growth, wellbeing, and work-life balance:

What We Offer:

• Career Growth: Learning and developmentprograms to boost your career.
• Exclusive Hotel Deals: 50% off stays at Minor Hotels in Australasia; 20% off for friends and family.
• Global Perks: International accommodation discounts across our hotel brands.
• Retail Rewards: Cashback and discounts at 400+ top retailers in AU/NZ.
• Experiences: Discounted entertainment and activities.
• Banking and Insurance: Exclusive health insurance offers and workplace banking benefits.
• Generous Leave: Parental and birthday leave.
• Wellness Boost: EAP and tailored wellness support.

Our people drive the success of our business; We are a dynamic organisation dedicated to delivering exceptional guest experiences. We invest in your skills and foster a workplace culture that celebrates innovation, collaboration, and personal growth.

Currently, we are only accepting applications from candidates who have working rights within Australia or New Zealand.