Head Chef – Craft Menus, Pairings & High-Volume Excellence

Modus Operandi Brewing Co.; Newcastle City Council; On-site; AUD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff discounts on food

Shift drink

Job summary

Modus Operandi Brewing Co. in Newcastle, NSW, invites a Head Chef to lead a high-volume kitchen that crafts menus reflecting the Modus style and seasonal specials, designed to pair with our core range and limited releases.

You will collaborate with the brewing team on beer-and-food pairings for masterclasses, tap takeovers and events, while mentoring a brigade and managing costs and food safety.

Qualifications

• At least 3+ years of experience as Head Chef or strong Sous Chef in a high-volume venue.
• Trade qualifications (Certificate III/IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent).
• Food Safety Supervisor certification (NSW).
• Strong understanding of Mexican flavours and techniques, seafood handling, or both.
• Proven ability to manage food cost, GP and labour, with confidence in the numbers.
• A calm, organised leadership style and a genuine commitment to developing your team.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop and write menus reflecting Modus style with seasonal specials and dishes designed to pair with our core range.
• Collaborate with the brewing team on beer-and-food pairings for masterclasses and events.
• Run high-volume service with consistency, speed and quality.
• Plan and execute function and event menus, including canapés, grazing, banquets and set menus.
• Recruit, train and mentor kitchen staff and build a positive kitchen culture.
• Manage food costs, GP targets, ordering, stock control and wastage, with regular reporting.
• Build rosters and manage kitchen labour to budget.
• Source from local and sustainable suppliers wherever possible, in line with Modus values.
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and WHS.
• Look after kitchen equipment and keep the kitchen clean and efficient.

Skills

Team leadership

Menu planning

Food cost management

Quality control

Allergen awareness

Education

Certificate III/IV in Commercial Cookery

Job description

Modus Operandi Brewing Co. in Newcastle, NSW, invites a Head Chef to lead a high-volume kitchen that crafts menus reflecting the Modus style and seasonal specials, designed to pair with our core range and limited releases.

You will collaborate with the brewing team on beer-and-food pairings for masterclasses, tap takeovers and events, while mentoring a brigade and managing costs and food safety.