Sous Chef

Efficient Recruitment Services Pty Ltd; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 79,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

Tek Cafe Pty Ltd is looking for a skilled Sous Chef to join our Somerton kitchen on a full-time basis. You will work closely with the Head Chef to plan, organise and supervise the preparation and cooking of Turkish, Mediterranean and contemporary Australian dishes.

The role requires menu design, cost control, staff supervision, and strict adherence to Australian food safety standards. Experience in Turkish/Mediterranean cuisine is highly valued.

Qualifications

• Experience with Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine preferred.
• Ability to plan menus and control food costs.
• Knowledge of Australian food safety and hygiene regulations, with食品安全 supervisor cert desired.
• Strong leadership and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and regularly update menus in line with Turkish and Mediterranean traditions and seasonal needs.
• Estimate food and labour costs, manage kitchen budgets, and order supplies.
• Monitor quality and presentation of all dishes throughout preparation and service.
• Organise and supervise all kitchen activities for smooth service.
• Prepare and cook Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, including mezes, grills and mains.
• Mentor and supervise junior kitchen staff; train apprentices.
• Collaborate with management and suppliers on dietary requirements.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards and hygiene regulations.

Job description

Efficient Recruitment Services Pty Ltd – Somerton VIC

Job Type: Permanent position | Full time position

Job Description

TEK CAFE PTY LTD ABN: 83 618 525 054 Location: Cooper Street, Somerton VIC 3062 Position Title: Sous Chef -Full time Salary: $79,000 – $82,000 per annum ABOUT THE COMPANY Tek Cafe Pty Ltd is an established full-service dining establishment specialising in Turkish, Mediterranean and contemporary Australian cuisine. The restaurant operates from dedicated premises with seating capacity for approximately 80 patrons, offering a comprehensive dine-in experience with table service and a fully equipped commercial kitchen. The establishment offers an extensive menu featuring traditional Turkish specialities, Mediterranean and contemporary Australian cuisine, freshly prepared breakfast dishes, pasta, risotto, premium chargrilled meats, steaks, lamb cutlets and a variety of other substantial meals.

Its culinary operations involve professional food preparation, diverse cooking techniques and carefully selected ingredients to maintain consistency in food quality, presentation and authenticity. About the Role Tek Cafe Pty Ltd is seeking a skilled and experienced Sous Chef on a full-time, permanent basis to support its established restaurant operations. Working closely with the Head Chef, the Sous Chef will be responsible for planning, organising and supervising the preparation and cooking of food served at the Café’.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Chef will be required to perform the following duties:

• Plan, design, and regularly update menus in accordance with Turkish culinary traditions, Mediterranean and contemporary Australian cuisine, seasonal availability, and business requirements.
• Estimate food and labour costs, manage kitchen budgets, and order food supplies to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations
• Monitor and maintain the quality, presentation, and consistency of all dishes at every stage of preparation and service
• Organise, coordinate, and supervise all kitchen activities to ensure smooth service during dining hours
• Prepare and cook a wide range of authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, including mezes, grills, pastries, and traditional mains
• Demonstrate cooking techniques and advise kitchen staff on correct culinary procedures and food presentation standards
• Liaise with management, front-of-house staff, and suppliers to discuss food preparation requirements, menu changes, and special dietary needs
• Enforce strict compliance with food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations in line with Australian food standards
• Train, mentor, and supervise junior kitchen staff and apprentices, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement
• Select and source premium Turkish and Mediterranean ingredients.
• Manage food preservation techniques including appropriate freezing, storage, and rotation of stock to minimise wastage

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED Applicants must meet at least one of the following qualification requirements:

• Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma, or Diploma in Commercial Cookery, Hospitality
• At least three (3) years of relevant professional experience as a Chef in a comparable dining or hospitality establishment, in lieu of formal qualifications

In addition, the following experience and attributes are required:

• Demonstrated experience in the preparation and cooking of Turkish and/or Mediterranean cuisine, or a strong aptitude and willingness to specialise
• Proven ability to plan menus, manage food costs, and maintain kitchen operations at a professional standard
• Sound knowledge of Australian food safety and hygiene regulations, with a current Food Safety Supervisor certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to perform under pressure during peak service periods
• Strong leadership and communication skills with experience supervising kitchen teams
• A genuine passion for authentic Turkish cuisine and a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences

Applications will be assessed as they are received. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Tek Cafe Pty Ltd is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all suitably qualified individuals.