Head Chef

KOI Bar & Restaurant; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff meals

Staff discounts

Sponsorship opportunities

Job summary

KOI Bar & Restaurant in Cairns, Australia, is seeking a Head Chef to lead all kitchen operations, from menu creation and team leadership to maintaining the highest standards of quality, consistency and presentation.

You will design seasonal menus with a Japanese fusion focus, ensure food safety and regulatory compliance, manage budgets and suppliers, and drive efficiency and excellence across every dish.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a modern, high-end kitchen.
• Expertise in Japanese or Asian fusion cuisine is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership and communication skills; ability to maintain a positive team culture.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire kitchen team in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Design and execute innovative, seasonal menus that highlight Japanese fusion cuisine.
• Ensure food safety, hygiene, and compliance with health regulations.
• Manage kitchen budgets, supplier relationships, and stock control.
• Drive consistency, efficiency, and excellence in every dish served.

Skills

Leadership

Team development

Communication

Creativity

Presentation

Job description

As Head Chef, you'll oversee all kitchen operations – from menu creation and team leadership to maintaining the highest standards of quality, consistency, and presentation.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a passionate kitchen team in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• Design and execute innovative, seasonal menus that highlight Japanese fusion cuisine
• Ensure food safety, hygiene, and compliance with health regulations
• Manage kitchen budgets, supplier relationships, and stock control
• Drive consistency, efficiency, and excellence in every dish served

About you

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a modern, high-end kitchen
• Expertise in Japanese or Asian fusion cuisine is highly desirable
• Strong leadership, team development, and communication skills
• A creative mindset with a keen eye for detail and presentation
• Ability to thrive under pressure while maintaining a positive team culture

About us

• Located in the heart of Cairns with sweeping views of the Coral Sea, KOI Bar & Restaurant is renowned for its bold, flavour-forward Japanese fusion menu and stylish, relaxed atmosphere. We blend traditional Japanese techniques with global influences to create memorable, modern dishes that keep our guests coming back for more.
• A leadership role in one of Cairns' premier venues
• The opportunity to influence and evolve a unique fusion menu
• Supportive management and a professional, inclusive work environment
• Staff meals and discounts
• Sponsorship available to the right candidate following successful completion of probation