Head Chef - Lead Nutritious Dining in Aged Care

Opal Healthcare; Tweed Heads West; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Permanent full-time opportunity

Competitive salary package plus 12% on

Paid parental leave

Ongoing learning and development viaOp

Scholarships up to $15,000 for further

State and national career progression

Team Member discounts and wellbeing

$5,000 referral bonus for eligible ref

Industry-leading systems and tech

Supportive leadership team and career

Job summary

Opal HealthCare in Tweed Valley Care Community is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead our culinary team, delivering nutritious, restaurant‑quality meals that support resident wellbeing. This role combines leadership with hands‑on culinary expertise to create meaningful dining experiences for residents and families.

You will guide menu development, mentor the kitchen staff, and ensure food safety, WHS and budget controls are managed effectively to maximise value and satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Food Safety Supervisor certification required.
• Experience leading kitchen or hospitality teams.
• Strong leadership, coaching and people management skills.
• Solid knowledge of food safety, WHS and kitchen compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the catering team to deliver exceptional dining experiences
• Plan and prepare nutritious, high-quality meals that meet resident preferences and dietary requirements
• Create seasonal menus and contribute to engaging food experiences for residents
• Coach and develop kitchen team members through mentoring and on-the-job training
• Ensure compliance with food safety, infection control, and workplace safety requirements
• Manage ordering, stock control, and catering budgets to minimise waste and maximise value
• Build positive relationships with residents and families to understand their dining preferences
• Drive continuous improvement across hospitality services and resident satisfaction

Skills

Leadership

Food safety

Staff training

Customer service

Time management

Collaborative

Communication

Education

Food Safety Supervisor certification

Job description

Opal HealthCare in Tweed Valley Care Community is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead our culinary team, delivering nutritious, restaurant‑quality meals that support resident wellbeing. This role combines leadership with hands‑on culinary expertise to create meaningful dining experiences for residents and families.

You will guide menu development, mentor the kitchen staff, and ensure food safety, WHS and budget controls are managed effectively to maximise value and satisfaction.