Lead Chef - Full-Time, High-Volume Bistro, Coastal NSW

Redmond Hotels Pty Ltd, Trading As The Coast Hotel; Coffs Harbour; On-site; AUD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career progression opportunities

Coastal lifestyle

Job summary

The Coast Hotel in Coffs Harbour is seeking experienced full-time Chefs to lead daily kitchen shifts, manage prep stations, and deliver high-volume service with a focus on quality and consistency.

Reporting to the Head Chef, you will forecast consumption, manage inventory and costs, and uphold WHS/HACCP standards while mentoring junior staff. A competitive package supports regional careers and lifestyle at The Coast Hotel.

Qualifications

• Certificate III and Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery from an Australian RTO (or equivalent).
• At least 2–3 years of professional Chef experience in high-volume hotel/bistro settings.
• Experience managing high-volume service shifts, line cooking, and fresh prep workflows.
• Knowledge of WHS, food safety management, and HACCP compliance.
• Proven leadership and time-management abilities with the capacity to work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen team on shift to ensure smooth, efficient operation.
• Oversee preparation, cooking, and presentation across menu items and function platters.
• Ensure consistent portion control, high-quality plating, and timely ticket delivery.
• Collaborate with Head Chef to maintain standards and refine daily specials.
• Forecast food consumption, conduct monthly inventory, and manage ordering/stock control.
• Monitor food costs, waste, and FIFO stock rotation to optimize margins.
• Assist with menu pricing calculations based on costs and overheads.
• Plan production schedules, prep lists, and staffing for meals and functions.
• Supervise cooks and kitchen staff, stepping in during peak periods.
• Inspect incoming supplies and equipment for quality and safety.
• Train junior staff to uphold standards and techniques.

Skills

High-volume cooking

Line cooking

Team leadership

WHS compliance

Food safety

Education

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery

Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery

Job description

The Coast Hotel in Coffs Harbour is seeking experienced full-time Chefs to lead daily kitchen shifts, manage prep stations, and deliver high-volume service with a focus on quality and consistency.

Reporting to the Head Chef, you will forecast consumption, manage inventory and costs, and uphold WHS/HACCP standards while mentoring junior staff. A competitive package supports regional careers and lifestyle at The Coast Hotel.