Chef - Fixed-Term Defence Base Kitchen | Free Meals

Compass Group New Zealand; Bulls; On-site; NZD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Great hourly rate

Uniform provided

Health program & wellbeing

Career progression opportunities

Christmas & New Year break

Job summary

Compass Group New Zealand is seeking two fixed-term full-time chefs for RNZAF Base Ohakea, near Palmerston North. The roles run from September 2026 to February 2027 to cover parental leave, working across a 7-day roster to prepare and serve quality meals for Defence personnel in a unique military environment.

You will contribute to daily kitchen operations, maintain food safety standards, and support stock control while enjoying a lifestyle in the Manawatū region.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a high-volume commercial or industrial kitchen.
• Relevant Chef or Catering qualification preferred.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and kitchen operations.
• Ability to work independently and supervise a small team.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and serve high-quality meals for buffet, cook-to-order and function catering.
• Ensure meals meet Compass Group quality standards.
• Support daily kitchen operations and food preparation requirements.
• Supervise and assist kitchen team members as needed.
• Assist with stock control and stocktakes.

Skills

High-volume kitchen experience

Team supervision

Food safety knowledge

Independent work

Education

Chef or Catering qualification

Job description

Compass Group New Zealand is seeking two fixed-term full-time chefs for RNZAF Base Ohakea, near Palmerston North. The roles run from September 2026 to February 2027 to cover parental leave, working across a 7-day roster to prepare and serve quality meals for Defence personnel in a unique military environment.

You will contribute to daily kitchen operations, maintain food safety standards, and support stock control while enjoying a lifestyle in the Manawatū region.