Head Chef

Hamilton Island; City of Brisbane; On-site; AUD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury resort destination is seeking a visionary Head Chef for Catseye Pool Club to shape its culinary identity. In this role, you'll lead kitchen operations, inspire a team, and drive menu innovation with a focus on seasonal produce. Ideal candidates will have proven leadership experience in premium dining and relevant culinary certifications. Enjoy a competitive salary and excellent work-life balance in a beautiful coastal setting.

Benefits

Subsidised accommodation

Gym access

Dining discounts

Opportunity for career progression

Qualifications

• Proven leadership as a Head Chef or Senior Sous in premium dining or resorts.
• Strong financial acumen for managing GP, rostering, and stock control.
• Experience in designing and executing seasonal menus.

Responsibilities

• Lead all kitchen operations at Catseye Pool Club.
• Drive menu innovation while focusing on seasonal produce.
• Ensure excellence in food quality, presentation, and consistency.

Skills

Leadership in kitchen operations

Menu innovation

Financial management

Communication skills

Passion for food and hospitality

Education

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery

Food Safety Supervisor Certification

Job description

Overview

HEAD CHEF– Catseye Pool Club | Hamilton Island

Lead a flagship dining destination on Australia’s most iconic island.

Hamilton Island’s newest venue, Catseye Pool Club at The Sundays, is seeking a visionary Head Chef to shape its culinary identity. Designed by acclaimed chefs Josh & Julie Niland, Catseye Pool Club celebrates modern Australian cuisine, seasonal produce, and share-style dining in one of the most breathtaking coastal settings in the country.

Benefits

• Lead in paradise – stunning Coral Sea views, tropical lifestyle, and no commute.
• Be part of prestige – work with menus created by award-winning Australian chefs.
• Enjoy balance & security – competitive salary, above-award conditions, penalty rates, and a roster designed for work–life balance (no split shifts).
• Relocation made easy – subsidised accommodation on Hamilton Island + relocation support.
• Exclusive staff perks – gym access, dining discounts, and the chance to grow your career within Australia’s leading resort group.

Responsibilities

As Head Chef, you’ll take ownership of all kitchen operations at Catseye Pool Club, leading a talented brigade in delivering premium à la carte dining, vibrant poolside service, and high-end events.

You’ll work closely with the Food & Beverage leadership team to:

• Lead & inspire a passionate kitchen brigade.
• Drive menu innovation while celebrating seasonal produce and the Niland philosophy.
• Deliver excellence in food quality, presentation, and consistency.
• Oversee operations including budgeting, rostering, stock, and compliance.
• Foster growth through training, mentorship, and positive team culture.

Qualifications

You’re a confident culinary leader with creativity, precision, and a passion for hospitality. You thrive in dynamic environments and inspire teams to deliver at their best.

• Proven leadership as a Head Chef or Senior Sous in premium dining or resorts.
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery + Food Safety Supervisor Certification.
• Strong financial acumen (GP management, rostering, and stock control).
• Experience designing and executing seasonal menus.
• Excellent communication and mentoring skills.
• A genuine love of food, innovation, and guest experience.

About Hamilton Island

Our mission is to share the wonder of Hamilton Island with the world. At Catseye Pool Club, you’ll join a venue that balances refined cuisine with relaxed island charm — a place where guests linger, connect, and create lasting memories.

Here, every team member shapes those experiences. Join us and make your next career move one to remember.

A little island can do wonders - make your next career move one to remember!