Sous Chef

The Big Banana; Coffs Harbour City Council; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Big Banana Fun Park is seeking a dedicated Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in delivering high-quality meals and smooth kitchen operations. This hands-on role requires leading by example, mentoring the kitchen team and ensuring consistent presentation and food safety during day service.

You will help with menu development, stock control and training while collaborating with front-of-house to create memorable guest experiences at Australia’s iconic venue.

Qualifications

• Strong leadership and the ability to mentor kitchen staff.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Thrives in a busy, fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Pride in consistency of food quality and presentation.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef with day-to-day kitchen operations.
• Prepare, cook and present high-quality meals to a high standard.
• Supervise and support kitchen staff during service.
• Lead by example in food quality, presentation and consistency.
• Ensure food safety, hygiene and WHS standards are maintained.
• Assist with stock ordering, rotation and inventory control.
• Minimise food waste and support cost control.
• Train, mentor and develop junior kitchen team members.
• Collaborate with front-of-house to deliver an outstanding guest experience.
• Assist with menu preparation and seasonal development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organisational Skills

Team Player

Calm Under Pressure

Job description

As Sous Chef, you'll play an important leadership role within the kitchen, assisting the Head Chef in maintaining exceptional food quality, kitchen operations and team performance. This is a hands-on position where you'll lead by example, preparing and presenting meals to a consistently high standard while helping mentor and support the kitchen team. The café operates primarily during the day, offering an excellent work-life balance, with occasional evening functions and special events throughout the year. From preparing breakfast and lunch service to assisting with menu development, stock control and training team members, you'll be an integral part of creating memorable dining experiences for guests.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef with the day-to-day operation of the kitchen.
• Prepare, cook and present fresh, high-quality meals to a consistently high standard.
• Supervise and support kitchen staff throughout service.
• Lead by example in maintaining exceptional food quality, presentation and consistency.
• Ensure all food safety, hygiene and WHS standards are maintained.
• Assist with stock ordering, stock rotation and inventory control.
• Minimise food waste and contribute to effective cost control.
• Help train, mentor and develop junior kitchen team members.
• Work collaboratively with the front-of-house team to deliver an outstanding guest experience.
• Assist with menu preparation and seasonal menu development where required.

About you

• Is passionate about producing fresh, high-quality food.
• Thrives in a busy, fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Has strong leadership skills and enjoys supporting and developing others.
• Leads by example with a positive, professional attitude.
• Takes pride in maintaining exceptional food quality, cleanliness and presentation.
• Has excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Works well under pressure while remaining calm and focused.
• Is reliable, motivated and has a strong work ethic.
• Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a close-knit team.

About us

The Big Banana Fun Park is one of Australia's most iconic tourist attractions where we create memorable experiences for thousands of guests. We're proud to have been recognised as one of Australia's Best Places to Work for three consecutive years, a reflection of our commitment to creating a workplace where people feel supported, valued and enjoy coming to work.