Head Chef — Lead Innovative Hotel Kitchen

Minor Hotels ANZ; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career growth programs

Hotel discounts worldwide

Global employee perks

Retail rewards program

Discounted experiences

Health insurance options

Generous leave including parental and

Wellness support

Job summary

Oaks Cairns Hotel is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team in a full-time capacity. You will oversee all operations, drive quality and presentation, and ensure WHS/HACCP compliance to deliver exceptional dining experiences.

The successful candidate will mentor staff, develop menus, manage food costs, and collaborate with management on training and strategic initiatives to elevate guest satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent.
• Proven experience as Head Chef or senior kitchen leader in a hotel/high-volume environment.
• Strong knowledge of modern cuisine trends.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Strong food cost control and inventory management.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Leadership

Food safety

Menu planning

Cost control

Team management

Education

Certificate III/IV in Commercial Cookery

Job description

Oaks Cairns Hotel is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team in a full-time capacity. You will oversee all operations, drive quality and presentation, and ensure WHS/HACCP compliance to deliver exceptional dining experiences.

The successful candidate will mentor staff, develop menus, manage food costs, and collaborate with management on training and strategic initiatives to elevate guest satisfaction.