Centre Chef

Bear Park; Auckland; On-site; NZD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing casual work

Job summary

Bear Park Kohimarama is seeking a Centre Chef for Sep–Nov 2026 to provide nutritious meals for up to 62 children each day. The role offers 37.5 hours per week, from 8.00am to 3.30pm, with flexibility for the right candidate.

You will hold a Food Safety Certificate and a Level 5 cooking qualification, with strong budgeting skills and experience catering for allergies. You’ll enjoy a supportive team and opportunities for ongoing casual work after the fixed term.

Qualifications

• Food Safety Certificate and Level 5 cooking qualification.
• Experience budgeting and catering for allergies.
• Enthusiastic and engaged, able to interact with children.

Responsibilities

• Prepare nutritious meals for up to 62 children daily.
• Manage kitchen budgets and inventory.
• Cook in line with allergy/intolerance requirements.
• Interact with parents, teachers and children in the centre.

Skills

Food safety

Budgeting

Child interaction

Menu planning

Education

Food Safety Certificate

Level 5 Cooking Qualification

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

The Role:

We are looking for a Centre Chef to join us on a fixed-term basis at Bear Park Kohimarama from September - November 2026. As our Chef you will be responsible for providing nutritious, balanced and delicious meals for up to 62 children each day. We embrace creativity and encourage everyone in our centre to explore new, fun ways of doing things, an approach that extends to our kitchen.

We are a welcoming, friendly, supportive and fun team that work together to ensure we provide our children with the best, from their nutrition through to their learning environment. This role has great working hours of 8.00am - 3.30pm (37.5 hours per week) however we can be flexible for the right candidate. Our kitchen is located in the heart of the centre and allows you to interact with parents, teachers and children whilst you work.

Ideally you will have a Food Safety Certificate, along with a minimum level 5 cooking qualification. You will have proven experience with budgets and a strong understanding of catering for food allergies and intolerances. You must be enthusiastic and engaged, and excited about the opportunity to interact with children.

There is also an opportunity for ongoing casual work at the conclusion of this fixed-term period.

Why Bear Park?

Bear Park is the premier early learning provider in New Zealand, with over 39 years of industry experience.

• Rewarding work environment
• Accessible leadership and an experience Centre Director
• Supportive and communicative centre culture
• Ongoing training and support

What Next?

At Bear Park we are Inspiring Lifelong Learners. Our philosophy is proven, our vision is inspired and our children are changing the world. Join us today and be part of the change.