Sous Chef

Piato Mediterranean; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Piato Mediterranean in Cairns is seeking a hands-on Sous Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, support the Head Chef, and help deliver Mediterranean-inspired dishes with flair.

You will mentor staff, contribute to seasonal menus, manage food prep, stock, costs and safety, and partner with front-of-house to ensure memorable guest experiences.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior kitchen role (Sous Chef or Chef de Partie ready to progress).
• Mediterranean cuisine passion and flavour-driven approach.
• Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.
• Ability to perform confidently in a busy, fast-paced restaurant.
• Sound understanding of food costing, stock management and kitchen efficiency.
• Creativity, attention to detail and commitment to high standards.
• Positive attitude, reliability and hands-on teamwork.
• Relevant culinary qualifications and knowledge of Australian food safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations and ensuring smooth, efficient service.
• Maintain exceptional standards of food quality, presentation, consistency and portion control.
• Supervise, motivate and mentor kitchen staff, creating a positive and professional working environment.
• Contribute creative ideas to menu development, seasonal specials and new dishes.
• Manage food preparation, ordering, stock rotation and inventory control.
• Monitor food costs, minimise wastage and maintain kitchen profitability without compromising quality.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and workplace health and safety standards.
• Take charge of kitchen operations in the Head Chef's absence.
• Work collaboratively with the front-of-house team to deliver an outstanding guest experience.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Organisational skills

Culinary excellence

Menu development

Food safety

Education

Culinary qualifications

Job description

Working closely with the Head Chef, you will play a key role in overseeing daily kitchen operations, maintaining high culinary standards and supporting the development of our kitchen team.

Key responsibilities

Assist the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations and ensuring smooth, efficient service.

Maintain exceptional standards of food quality, presentation, consistency and portion control.

Supervise, motivate and mentor kitchen staff, creating a positive and professional working environment.

Contribute creative ideas to menu development, seasonal specials and new dishes.

Manage food preparation, ordering, stock rotation and inventory control.

Monitor food costs, minimise wastage and maintain kitchen profitability without compromising quality.

Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and workplace health and safety standards.

Take charge of kitchen operations in the Head Chef's absence.

Work collaboratively with the front-of-house team to deliver an outstanding guest experience.

About you

Proven experience as a Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie ready to take the next step.

A genuine passion for cooking, particularly Mediterranean cuisine and fresh, flavour-driven food.

Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.

Ability to perform confidently in a busy, fast-paced restaurant.

Sound understanding of food costing, stock management and kitchen efficiency.

Creativity, attention to detail and commitment to consistently high standards.

A positive attitude, reliability and a hands-on approach to teamwork.

Relevant culinary qualifications and a sound understanding of Australian food safety standards.

About us

Piato is a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired restaurant focused on fresh ingredients, bold flavours, quality food and memorable dining experiences.

Competitive remuneration based on experience.

The opportunity to work with a passionate and supportive team.

Creative input into menu development and seasonal specials.

Opportunities for professional growth and career progression.

A dynamic workplace where quality, teamwork and fresh ideas are valued.