Head Chef

Barilla Bay Tasmania; Cambridge; On-site; AUD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Barilla Bay Seafoods is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead a busy kitchen and elevate our seafood dining experience, with a special focus on showcasing oysters. This hands-on role requires exceptional organisational skills, creativity, and the ability to deliver outstanding food and service in a fast-paced setting.

The Head Chef will manage a small team, drive high-quality standards, and develop innovative menus using premium local produce.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading a kitchen team in a high-volume environment.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Solid understanding of food costing and kitchen operations.
• Passion for seafood and local produce in menu development.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a small kitchen team.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency.
• Manage kitchen operations during high-volume service periods.
• Develop innovative menus and daily specials highlighting local produce and seafood.
• Create oyster-focused dishes showcasing flavour and creativity.
• Oversee food cost control, stock management, and ordering.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
• Create a positive and professional kitchen and FOH environment.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Calm under pressure

Communication

Food costing

Seafood specialist

Menu development

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Head Chef to take the reins of our busy kitchen and help elevate our seafood dining experience, with a particular focus on showcasing the incredible versatility of oysters.

About the Role

As Head Chef, you will be responsible for leading a small but dedicated kitchen team in a fast-paced environment. This is a hands‑on leadership role requiring exceptional organisational skills, passion, creativity, and the ability to deliver outstanding food and service under pressure.

This is a full‑time position, working 38 hours per week. Working Thursday – Monday. Salary is negotiable and will be commensurate with experience. Commencing ASAP.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and inspire a small kitchen team.

Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency.

Manage kitchen operations during high-volume service periods.

Develop innovative menus and daily specials that highlight premium local produce and fresh seafood.

Create exciting and unique oyster-based dishes that showcase flavour & creativity

Oversee food cost control, stock management, and ordering.

Ensure compliance with all food safety and hygiene standards.

Create a positive and professional kitchen and FOH environment

About You

Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high‑volume venue. (minimum 2 years)

Strong leadership and team management skills.

Ability to remain calm and organised in a busy service environment.

Excellent communication and problem‑solving abilities.

Strong understanding of food costing and kitchen operations.

A creative mindset and passion for seafood and local produce to create memorable dining experiences.

About Us

Barilla Bay Seafoods operates three oyster farming locations in Pitt Water, Dunalley, and Boomer Bay. Our restaurant, featuring floor‑to‑ceiling windows, overlooks the picturesque Barilla Bay and Coal River Valley. As a pioneer in Tasmania's aqua‑tourism industry, we have created a unique visitor experience that showcases the very best of local produce and freshly harvested oysters every day. We are passionate about delivering exceptional food, service, and hospitality to our guests.

Join our team and become part of the memorable dining experience that has made Barilla Bay Seafoods a must‑visit destination for locals and visitors alike.