Senior Chef: Menu Innovator in Fast-Paced Kitchen

Piatella Cafe Bar Burwood One; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Piatella Cafe Bar Burwood One is seeking two skilled Chefs to join the kitchen team in Burwood East. You will lead menu development, prepare and cook dishes, and oversee kitchen operations to maintain high standards of quality and safety.

The role requires strong culinary skills, leadership, and the ability to manage food costs and inventory in a fast-paced hospitality setting. Experience with Australian and Italian cuisine is preferred.

Qualifications

• Trade qualifications in commercial cookery or hospitality; Diploma of Management advantageous.
• At least three years’ experience as a Chef in a professional kitchen.
• Experience with Australian and Italian cuisine preferred.
• Strong knowledge of menu planning, recipe development, food preparation, cooking techniques, and presentation.
• Experience supervising kitchen staff and coordinating daily operations.
• Sound knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and workplace health and safety requirements.
• Experience in food costing, stock control, purchasing, inventory management, and budgeting.
• Ability to maintain food quality, portion control, and minimising waste.
• Strong leadership, communication, teamwork and organisational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced hospitality environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and develop menus and daily specials, considering ingredients and seasonal availability.
• Develop new recipes and dishes to expand offerings.
• Prepare and cook menu items for regular service, events, and functions.
• Direct and supervise kitchen staff to ensure efficient operations.
• Instruct staff in cooking techniques, garnishing, and presentation standards.
• Monitor food safety, hygiene, and workplace health and safety compliance.
• Estimate quantities and costs of ingredients and supplies for kitchen operations.
• Collaborate with Owner/Manager to create seasonal menus and recipes.

Skills

Menu planning

Recipe development

Food preparation

Cooking techniques

Food presentation

Supervising kitchen staff

Stock control

Purchasing

Inventory management

Budget monitoring

Leadership

Communication

Teamwork

Organisational skills

Working under pressure

Education

Australian trade qualifications in commercial cookery or hospitality

Diploma of Management

Job description

Piatella Cafe Bar Burwood One is seeking two skilled Chefs to join the kitchen team in Burwood East. You will lead menu development, prepare and cook dishes, and oversee kitchen operations to maintain high standards of quality and safety.

The role requires strong culinary skills, leadership, and the ability to manage food costs and inventory in a fast-paced hospitality setting. Experience with Australian and Italian cuisine is preferred.