HEAD CHEF

JobSpace; Howick; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

AQUION HOLDING LIMITED is seeking a Head Chef for Kajiken-Rosedale in Auckland to lead kitchen operations and create authentic Asian and Japanese dishes. You will oversee menu development, food preparation, quality control, and staff training to deliver an exceptional dining experience.

The role requires strong leadership, creativity, and a passion for Asian cuisine, with on-the-job training provided and a 30–60 hour work week. NZ residency or valid visa is required.

Qualifications

• At least two years of hospitality experience or NZQF Level 4 or higher.
• Understanding of food safety regulations and sanitary practices.
• Passion for Asian and Japanese cuisine and authentic dining experience.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• On-the-job training will be provided.
• Commitment to a 30–60 hour work week.

Responsibilities

• Menu development and updating menus featuring traditional and innovative dishes.
• Prepare ingredients and cook dishes to established recipes.
• Quality control to maintain taste, texture and presentation.
• Oversee kitchen operations, inventory, supplies, and equipment.
• Train and supervise kitchen staff in techniques and safety.
• Interact with customers to ensure a memorable dining experience.
• Maintain hygiene and compliance with health codes.
• Stay updated on trends in Japanese cuisine and techniques.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Food safety knowledge

Creativity

Education

NZQA Level 4+ 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.

Our Asian Cuisine restaurant-Kajiken, Rosedale branch in Auckland, is seeking a Head Chef to join our team. As a Head chef, you will be responsible for the preparation, cooking, and presentation of authentic Asian and Japanese dishes in a culinary setting. The role requires creativity, attention to detail, and a passion for Asian cuisine.

Kajiken-Rosedale is a trading name operating under the registered company AQUION HOLDING LIMITED, and recruitment for the Kajiken Rosedale branch refers to recruitment by AQUION HOLDING LIMITED.

Key Responsibilities:

• Menu Development: Collaborate with restaurant management to create and update menus that feature a variety of traditional and innovative dishes.
  Food Preparation: Prepare ingredients and cook dishes according to established recipes and standards.
• Quality Control: Ensure that all dishes meet quality and presentation standards, maintaining consistency in taste, texture, and appearance.
• Kitchen Management: Oversee the kitchen operations, including managing inventory, ordering supplies, and maintaining equipment to ensure efficiency and sanitation.
• Staff Training: Train and supervise kitchen staff in proper cooking techniques, food safety practices, and adherence to recipes to maintain consistency and quality.
• Customer Service: Interact with customers to understand their preferences, accommodate special requests, and provide an exceptional dining experience.
• Hygiene and Safety: Adhere to food safety regulations and maintain cleanliness and sanitation standards in the kitchen area to ensure compliance with health codes.
• Continuous Learning: Stay updated on trends and developments in Japanese cuisine, incorporating new techniques and ingredients into menu offerings to enhance culinary creativity.

Requirements for the role:

• At least two years of relevant work experience in the hospitality industry is required, or a relevant qualification at NZQF Level 4 or higher. No specific major is required if the candidate holds a bachelor's degree or higher.
• Understanding of food safety regulations and commitment to maintaining a clean and sanitary quality.
• Passion for Asian and Japanese cuisine and dedication to delivering authentic dining experience to customers.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• On the job training will be provided.
• You will be required to work for a minimum of 30 hours and a maximum of 60 hours per week.

Applicants for this position should have NZ residence or a valid NZ work visa. Please tell us your visa status when applying for this role.