Cafe Lead Chef

Rangiora Bakery; Rangiora; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Strong team culture

Work/life balance

Free on-site car parking

Job summary

Rangiora Bakery, a well-established North Canterbury business, is seeking a visionary Cafe Lead Chef to set the tone for our busy cafe. You will work closely with the Cafe Manager to develop new menus, craft eye-catching cabinet items and mentor our culinary team.

We offer 40 hours per week, Tuesday to Saturday, with no evenings or nights; other days/hours can be negotiated. You will lead by example, ensure high standards, food safety and a positive work environment.

Qualifications

• Relevant culinary qualification; cafe chef experience an advantage.
• Minimum 4 years' experience.
• Strong communication and leadership skills with a passion for mentoring others.
• Ability to remain calm and work under pressure.
• Reliable with a positive attitude.
• High attention to detail and dedication to maintaining standards.
• Physically fit.

Responsibilities

• Proactively assist the Cafe Manager to develop innovative seasonal menu's that delight our customers and keep them coming back for more.
• Lead by example, inspiring the growth and development of the culinary team.
• Manage food costing, stock rotation, inventory and reduction of waste.
• Promote a positive work environment, leading culinary team to ensure outstanding service.
• Champion Food Safety and Health and Safey regulations and procedures to ensure a hygienic and safe work environment

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

Artisan Café, Rangiora Bakery is a well-established, vibrant, and respected North Canterbury business. We are looking for a visionary Cafe Lead Chef to help set the tone as we move forward with a strong focus on the future. The successful applicant will bring their passion and energy to ensure we continue to provide the high quality, consistent food and service our customers have come to expect.

This role will work closely with our Cafe Manager, developing new menu items, making delicious eye-catching cabinet food and supporting the development of our culinary team.

The Role

• Proactively assist the Cafe Manager to develop innovative seasonal menu's that delight our customers and keep them coming back for more.
• Lead by example, inspiring the growth and development of the culinary team.
• Manage food costing, stock rotation, inventory and reduction of waste.
• Promote a positive work environment, leading culinary team to ensure outstanding service.
• Champion Food Safety and Health and Safey regulations and procedures to ensure a hygienic and safe work environment

Days and Hours of Work:

Working 40 hours per week, Tuesday to Saturday, (no evenings or nights) actual days and hours can be negotiated with the successful candidate.

About you, you will have:

• Relevant culinary qualification, Cafe Chef experience an advantage
• Minimum 4 years' experience
• Strong communication and leadership skills with a passion for mentoring others.
• Ability to remain calm and work under pressure
• Reliable with a positive attitude
• High attention to detail and dedication to maintaining standards.
• Physically fit.

We provide:

• Competitive remuneration
• Strong and supportive team culture.
• Work/life balance.
• Free on-site car parking.

You must be eligible to legally work in NZ to apply.

Applications close Friday 11th of August 2026