Lead Chef: Menu Innovator & Kitchen Leader

Labour Support Group; Ballarat; On-site; AUD 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

The Client Café Brewster in Wendouree VIC is seeking a full-time Chef to lead day-to-day kitchen operations, plan and deliver menus, and mentor a passionate team. The role offers an annual salary of $80,000 plus superannuation in a busy, high-standards kitchen setting.

You will manage menu development, stock control, and service quality while ensuring food safety and compliance. Weekend availability is expected as part of a dynamic cafe operation.

Qualifications

• Must have strong leadership and team coordination skills.
• Proven ability to plan and adapt menus.
• Solid knowledge of food safety, hygiene and HACCP principles.
• Excellent time management and attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork with front-of-house and management.

Responsibilities

• Develop menus that suit customer preferences, seasonal availability and business requirements.
• Estimate food and labour requirements and coordinate the ordering of kitchen supplies.
• Manage stock levels and help reduce food waste.
• Maintain consistently high standards across food preparation, cooking, presentation and portioning.
• Work closely with management, dietary professionals and front-of-house staff to address menu and food preparation requirements.
• Guide kitchen staff on cooking methods, preparation techniques and presentation standards.
• Prepare and cook menu items efficiently while maintaining quality during busy service periods.
• Ensure the kitchen complies with food safety, hygiene and workplace health and safety requirements.
• Assist with recruiting, training and supervising kitchen employees when required.
• Use appropriate freezing, storage and preservation methods to maintain food quality and freshness.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Food safety

Time management

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Certificate IV in Kitchen Management or equivalent

Job description

The Client Café Brewster in Wendouree VIC is seeking a full-time Chef to lead day-to-day kitchen operations, plan and deliver menus, and mentor a passionate team. The role offers an annual salary of $80,000 plus superannuation in a busy, high-standards kitchen setting.

You will manage menu development, stock control, and service quality while ensuring food safety and compliance. Weekend availability is expected as part of a dynamic cafe operation.