Catering Event Chef

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Career growth

Quality ingredients

Kitchen facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Catering Event Chef to lead culinary execution for diverse events in Queenstown. You will craft and plate exceptional dishes, oversee live kitchen operations, and ensure client specifications are met with precision.

The ideal candidate brings a strong catering or fine dining background, a commitment to culinary excellence, and a passion for customer satisfaction. This role offers growth and the chance to showcase talent across prestigious events.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef in catering, hotel, or restaurant environments.
• Strong culinary techniques and flavor profiling knowledge.
• Excellent food preparation, presentation, and quality control skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage time during events.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Relevant culinary qualifications and certifications are essential.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook high‑quality dishes for catering events according to recipes and standards.
• Collaborate with catering manager and event planners to finalize menus.
• Manage kitchen operations during events, incl. mise en place, cooking, plating, and service coordination.
• Ensure strict food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards.
• Maintain ingredients/inventory and assist with ordering.
• Contribute to menu innovation and stay updated on trends.

Skills

Event execution

Catering/food service

Time management

Communication & teamwork

Education

Culinary qualifications

Certifications

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and adaptable Catering Event Chef to lead culinary execution for diverse events in Queenstown . This role demands creativity, precision, and the ability to manage kitchen operations under pressure during live events. You will be responsible for preparing and presenting exceptional dishes that meet the specific requirements of each client and event type. The ideal candidate is a passionate chef with a strong background in catering or fine dining, committed to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook high-quality dishes for various catering events, adhering to established recipes and presentation standards.
• Collaborate with the catering manager and event planners to finalize menus and ensure all culinary requirements are met.
• Manage kitchen operations during events, including mise en place, cooking, plating, and coordination with service staff.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards at all times.
• Maintain inventory of ingredients and supplies for events, assisting with ordering as needed.
• Contribute to menu innovation and development, staying abreast of culinary trends.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Chef in a catering, hotel, or restaurant environment, with experience in event execution.
• Strong understanding of diverse culinary techniques and flavor profiles.
• Excellent skills in food preparation, presentation, and quality control.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and manage time effectively during events.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Relevant culinary qualifications and certifications are essential.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to showcase culinary talent across a variety of prestigious events.
• Work within a professional and dedicated catering team.
• Access to quality ingredients and kitchen facilities.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.