Chef - Fast-Paced Kitchen, High-Quality Dishes, Kaikoura

Mogi I/O : Ott/Podcast/Short Video Apps For You; Canterbury; On-site; NZD 44,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided

Travel costs paid

Weekly pay

8% holiday pay

Job summary

J & L Takeaways Limited is seeking a passionate Chef to join our kitchen team in Kaikoura, Canterbury. The role focuses on preparing high-quality dishes, upholding kitchen standards, and contributing to a professional working environment.

The successful candidate will have at least 2 years of experience or a Level 4+ qualification, strong food preparation skills, and the ability to manage time and work well under pressure in a fast-paced setting. Accommodation and travel support may be provided.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of relevant work experience or a qualification of level 4 or above.
• Strong knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques and food safety.
• Excellent time management and organisational skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook, and present dishes to a high standard.
• Ensure all food is prepared according to recipes and quality standards.
• Maintain excellent kitchen hygiene, cleanliness and safety.
• Monitor stock levels, assist with ordering and minimise waste.
• Store, label and handle ingredients correctly.
• Collaborate with kitchen and front-of-house staff for smooth service.
• Assist with menu planning, recipe development and daily specials.
• Manage food preparation during busy service periods.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and health and safety requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organised and efficient kitchen.

Skills

Food preparation

Cooking techniques

Food safety

Time management

Teamwork

Education

Level 4 or higher in Cookery

Job description

Chef

Location: Kaikoura, Canterbury

Employment Type: Full-time

Employer: J & L Takeaways Limited

About the Role

We are looking for a passionate, skilled, and motivated Chef to join our kitchen team. The successful candidate will take pride in preparing high-quality dishes, maintaining excellent kitchen standards, and contributing to a positive and professional working environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook, and present dishes to a consistently high standard.
• Ensure all food is prepared according to recipes, specifications, and quality standards.
• Maintain excellent food hygiene, cleanliness, and kitchen safety practices.
• Monitor food stock levels, assist with ordering, and minimize food waste.
• Ensure ingredients are stored, labelled, and handled correctly.
• Work collaboratively with the kitchen team and front-of-house staff to ensure smooth service.
• Assist with menu planning, recipe development, and daily specials where required.
• Manage food preparation and cooking during busy service periods.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and workplace health and safety requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and efficient kitchen at all times.

What We’re Looking For

• At least 2 years of relevant work experience, or a qualification of at least level 4 or above.
• A genuine passion for food, cooking, and delivering quality dishes.
• Strong knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and food safety.
• Excellent time management and organisational skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.

Please note this is a full time position with a guaranteed hours of at least 30 hours per week.

Other Opportunities

We also have positions for Chefs de Partie, Produce Processing staff, and Casual Chef roles across Christchurch, Woolston, and the South Island. These roles offer flexibility, competitive pay, and opportunities for growth.

Remuneration and Benefits

• $32 to $37 per hour, depending on experience.
• Accommodation provided.
• Travel costs paid.
• 40+ hours per week.
• Weekly pay, plus 8% holiday pay.

Eligibility

Applicants must have NZ citizenship, residency, or a valid work visa. We do not offer visa sponsorship.

Contact and Application

For more information, please contact the relevant recruiter or refer to the job postings for specific details. No 'apply now' prompts remain in this description.