Sous Chef – Melissa Oakleigh

Melissa Oakleigh; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A family-run Mediterranean restaurant in Melbourne is seeking a passionate Sous Chef to help lead the kitchen and ensure memorable dining experiences. You will support menu planning, supervise kitchen operations, and mentor the kitchen team. Minimum 2 years’ experience and knowledge of Mediterranean cuisine required. A competitive salary package of $70k–$85k is offered, along with growth opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Opportunities for professional growth

Supportive team environment

Immediate start for the right candidate

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Sous Chef or in an equivalent senior role.
• Proven leadership and people management skills.
• Strong understanding of food provenance and sustainability in menu development.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in menu planning and recipe development.
• Supervise daily kitchen operations and ensure food quality.
• Lead and mentor the kitchen team with training and guidance.

Skills

Leadership and people management

Knowledge of Mediterranean cuisine

Menu costing and stock control

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

Job description

Melissa Oakleigh is seeking a passionate and skilled Sous Chef to join our team. As Sous Chef, you’ll work closely with our Head Chef, helping to lead the kitchen, maintain high standards, and deliver memorable dining experiences for our guests. This is a full-time position based at our Mediterranean restaurant in the heart of Oakleigh.

What you’ll be doing

• Supporting the Head Chef in menu planning, recipe development, and cost control
• Supervising daily kitchen operations, ensuring high-quality food and presentation
• Leading and mentoring the kitchen team with training and guidance
• Ensuring compliance with all food safety, hygiene, and OH&S/WHS requirements
• Collaborating with front-of-house staff to deliver a seamless dining experience
• Managing stock levels and contributing to efficient ordering and cost management

What we’re looking for

• Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Sous Chef (or in an equivalent senior role)
• Proven leadership and people management skills
• Sound knowledge of Mediterranean cuisine and a passion for fresh, high-quality ingredients
• Strong understanding of food provenance and sustainability in menu development
• Demonstrated ability in menu costing, stock control, and food safety compliance
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while leading calmly under pressure

What we offer

• A competitive salary package ($70k–$85k + Super, based on experience and qualifications)
• Opportunities for professional growth and career development
• A supportive, close-knit team environment
• An immediate start for the right candidate

About us

Melissa Oakleigh is a family-run Mediterranean restaurant in Melbourne’s vibrant Oakleigh precinct. We are passionate about sharing the richness of Mediterranean flavors with our community, creating exceptional dining experiences, and maintaining a welcoming, team-oriented environment for our staff.

Apply now

If you are a motivated and experienced Sous Chef ready to take the next step in your career, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and join our kitchen leadership team at Melissa Oakleigh.