Production Chef Manager | Melaleuka Farm Merchants

The Glen Hotel Pty; Byford; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Melaleuka Farm Merchants Butchery and Food Production in Byford seeks an experienced Production Chef Manager to lead meat production, cooks and oversee the butchery team. You will drive quality, profitability, and operational excellence under the guidance of the Group Chef.

You will mentor staff, refine recipes, manage costs, and ensure strict food safety and HACCP compliance across production lines. This role demands hands-on leadership in a dynamic farm-to-table environment.

Qualifications

• Commercial Cookery Cert III (desirable).
• Food Safety Supervisor Certification.
• Chemform Training Certificate.

Responsibilities

• Hands-on butchery & culinary execution: prepare, process, and portion carcasses and primal cuts to spec, maximise yield.
• Financial & inventory accountability: manage food costs, gross margins, and rostering efficiency; oversee stocktakes and supplier relations.
• Team leadership & operational coaching: lead and upskill staff, allocate tasks, run toolbox talks, foster a high‑performance culture.
• Quality control & innovation collaboration: ensure consistency in product presentation and collaborate on recipes and product improvements.
• Safety & compliance ownership: uphold HACCP, OH&S, and preventative maintenance programs.

Skills

Qualified Chef

Butchery & meat prep

Leadership

Commercial acumen

Physical fitness

Education

Commercial Cookery Cert III

Food Safety Supervisor Certification

Chemform Training Certificate

Job description

About Melaleuka Farm - Join a team where passion meets produce.

Melaleuka Farm is a proud Western Australian family-owned enterprise committed to a true farm-to-table experience. Our diverse operations span from cattle breeding and farming to meat processing, retail, and nine vibrant hospitality venues.

We are dedicated to our people, our culture, and delivering exceptional hospitality. When you join Melaleuka Farm, you’re not just starting a job; you’re becoming part of a focused, dynamic family committed to growth and excellence.

The Role: Elevate the Experience

We are seeking an experienced, high-performing Production Chef Manager to oversee operations at Melaleuka Farm Merchants Butchery and Food Production (MFM), located in Byford. As the Production Chef Manager, you will Lead our MFM food production and butchery teams in delivering premium meat preparation, exceptional food quality, and seamless operational performance. Working alongside the Group Executive Chef, you will drive P&L success, optimizing labor, COGS, and inventory, while embedding strict HACCP compliance. We are looking for an operational leader to mentor staff, refine recipes, and elevate production standards across the board.

Your Key Responsibilities

Hands-on Butchery & Culinary Execution: Master the preparation, processing, and portioning of carcasses and primal cuts to company specifications while maximising yield and minimising waste.

Financial & Inventory Accountability: Drive profitability by managing food costs, gross profit margins, and labour-efficient rostering, while overseeing inventory, stocktakes, and supplier relations.

Team Leadership & Operational Coaching: Lead, mentor, and upskill butchery and production staff, managing daily task allocation, toolbox meetings, and a high-performance team culture.

Quality Control & Innovation Collaboration: Ensure strict consistency in product presentation and food quality while collaborating with marketing and events teams on recipe planning and innovation.

Strict Safety & Compliance Ownership: Maintain high operational standards by taking full ownership of Food Safety/HACCP programs, OH&S requirements, and preventative equipment maintenance.

What You'll Bring to the Team

Dual Expertise: Proven background as a qualified Chef with substantial hands-on experience in butchery and meat preparation.

Leadership Drive: Strong supervisory skills with a track record of coaching teams, resolving operational challenges under pressure, and driving a positive safety culture.

Commercial Acumen: Solid understanding of recipe costing, yield control, and inventory management systems.

Physical Capability: Ability to handle physical requirements, including working in refrigerated prep environments, heavy lifting, and long periods on your feet.

Mandatory Requirements

Commercial Cookery Cert III (desirable)

Food Safety Supervisor Certification

Chemform Training Certificate

Working Rights
Applicants must have full and unrestricted working rights in Australia. Please note that visa sponsorship is not available for this position, and only candidates who are legally authorised to work in Australia will be considered.

Our Commitment to You

Culture: Join a dynamic, family-owned business where dedication to our team is central to everything we do.

Growth: Collaborate with experienced industry professionals committed to sharing their knowledge and providing clear pathways for career advancement.

Note: Due to the high volume of applications, we will only contact shortlisted candidates. We appreciate your interest in joining the Melaleuka Farm family.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Melaleuka Farm celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of background, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.

Screening Questions

• Do you have experience in a similar role?
• Will your commute be 30 minutes or less?
• Have you got rights to work in Australia? If on a Visa what is it?
• Do you have a Food Safety Supervisor and Chemform Certificate?