Qualified Head Chef

Avoca Beach Surf Club; Gosford; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A popular coastal venue located in New South Wales is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team. Responsibilities include preparing high-quality meals, managing stock, and leading the kitchen staff. Candidates should have a formal culinary qualification and at least three years of experience in a leadership role. The position offers a competitive salary and the chance to work in a vibrant, community-focused environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Salary packaging available

Staff discounts

Growth opportunities in a local team

Qualifications

• Proven 3 years experience as a head chef in a kitchen leadership role with up to date references.
• Passionate about fresh, local ingredients and creative cuisine.
• Ability to work efficiently in a busy, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare high-quality creative dishes, including regular menu and daily specials.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment.
• Lead, recruit, and train the back of house team.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Knowledge of food safety standards

Experience with stock control

Culinary creativity

Education

Cert IV in Commercial Cookery

Diploma of Hospitality Management

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

Located right by the beach, our surf club is a favourite for locals and visitors enjoying casual dining, cold drinks, and friendly service. With stunning views, a relaxed atmosphere, and a busy calendar of functions, we’re looking for an experienced, reliable and energetic Head Chef to lead the kitchen team at our lively coastal venue.

The Role

We’re looking for a talented, creative, and qualified Head Chef to prepare and deliver exceptional meals for our club members and guests.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare high-quality creative dishes, including both a regular menu and daily specials
• Cater to dietary preferences and requirements, including vegetarian and gluten-free options
• Create seasonal menus and event catering
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment
• Managing stock ordering, deliveries, and inventory
• Managing supplier relationships ensuring cost efficiency and quality products
• Uphold high standards of food hygiene and safety regulations
• Leading, recruiting and training the back of house team
• Collaborate with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth service and quality
• Rostering and shift wage management using Deputy software

Qualifications & Skills:

• A formal culinary qualification (cert IV commercial cookery and diploma of Hospitality Management)
• Proven 3 years experience as a head chef in a kitchen leadership role with up to date references.
• Strong leadership, communication & people management skills
• Calm under pressure, great with people, and highly organised
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards
• Passionate about fresh, local ingredients and creative cuisine
• Ability to work efficiently in a busy, fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Solid computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word, and email communication
• Skilled in stock control, ordering, and supplier management
• Flexible availability, including evening, weekends and holiday periods

Why Join Us

• Stunning beachfront location with a great local team
• Opportunity for growth with a community focused venue
• Variety through both day-to-day service and events/functions
• Competitive salary based on experience
• Salary packaging available
• Staff discounts and a supportive work environment
• Opportunities are also available for casual chefs - we strongly encourage you to apply

How to Apply

If you’re a hands-on leader ready for your next challenge, we’d love to hear from you!

Your application will include the following questions:

• Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?
• How many years' experience do you have as a qualified chef?
• Do you have experience preparing work rosters?
• Have you worked in a role where you were responsible for stock control?
• How many years of people management experience do you have?
• How much notice are you required to give your current employer?

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