Cafe Head Chef

Chur Bae; Auckland; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A thriving café in Auckland is searching for a passionate Head Chef to take charge of culinary operations. In this hands-on leadership role, you'll manage kitchen activities, ensure high standards of food quality, and cultivate a vibrant team culture. Candidates should have substantial experience in a fast-paced environment and a dedication to culinary excellence. This opportunity promises a supportive work atmosphere with excellent benefits and a focus on both Asian and Western cuisines.

Benefits

Supportive ownership and team culture

Competitive salary based on experience

Staff meals and great coffee

Qualifications

• At least 1 year experience as a Head Chef or 2+ years as a Senior Sous Chef.
• Confident under pressure with strong kitchen systems in place.
• Must be eligible to work in New Zealand.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen operations and ensure food quality during service.
• Collaborate on menu development and maintain food safety.
• Train and support kitchen staff in a positive environment.

Skills

Leadership

Team Management

Creativity

Education

Level 3 Cookery qualification

Job description

Chur Bae first opened in 2022, earning a spot in Metro’s Top 10 cafés in 2023 and Top 50 in 2024. While good food and drinks are essential, we believe it’s the people who truly shape what a restaurant becomes.

We’re on the lookout for a passionate, driven, and experienced chef to lead our kitchen team and help define the next chapter for Chur Bae. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who loves crafting delicious, thoughtful dishes and building a positive, productive kitchen culture.

What You’ll Be Doing:

Lead kitchen operations and cook to a high standard during busy service

Maintaining strong portion control, presentation, and food safety practices

Collaborate on menu development and seasonal changes

Managing stock ordering, rotation, and cost control

Supporting and training kitchen staffs.

Contributing to a positive, efficient, and team-focused kitchen environment

Brings confidence and creativity to both Asian and Western cuisines, with the flexibility to adapt to a diverse and evolving menu

About you:

At least 1 year experience as a Head Chef or 2+ years as a Senior Sous Chef in a busy, fast-paced café or restaurant - A Level 3 Cookery qualification is preferred, or equivalent cooking experience

Strong leadership, team management, and mentoring skills

Confident under pressure with solid kitchen systems and organisation

Must be eligible to work in New Zealand

Must be able to work weekends

What We Offer:

Supportive ownership and team culture

Competitive salary based on experience

Staff meals and great coffee on the house

At Chur Bae, passion is at the heart of everything we do. If you're ready to take the next step in your culinary career, we’d love to hear from you — apply now.

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Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand? How many years' experience do you have as a sous chef? How many years' experience do you have as a Head Chef?

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