Head Chef

Star Group; Upper Hutt; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A local taproom in Wellington is seeking a full-time Head Chef to lead their kitchen team. The ideal candidate will have significant culinary experience and a passion for crafting great food. Responsibilities include managing busy services, creating appealing menus, and overseeing kitchen operations and costs. Join a relaxed and welcoming environment focused on fresh flavors.

Qualifications

• Significant culinary experience required.
• Proven ability to lead a kitchen team effectively.
• Strong organizational skills and calm demeanor under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen and manage busy service efficiently.
• Create menus that appeal to customers.
• Ensure timely service and manage food costs.
• Oversee wage costs and kitchen operations.

Skills

Culinary expertise

Menu creation

Team leadership

Calm under pressure

Job description

Overview

Whether it’s a round of pints, a classic feed, or a catch-up with mates, the Taproom is where locals come together. We’re all about fresh flavour, no-fuss hospitality, and creating a vibe that’s relaxed, welcoming, and unmistakably Kiwi. And we need a solid crew in the kitchen to keep it all humming.

Tuatara Taproom is on the hunt for a full-time Head Chef who’s confident leading a high-performing kitchen and passionate about crafting consistently great food. You’ll bring serious culinary experience and know how to lead a tight team in a busy service. From writing fresh, crowd-pleasing menus to smashing service times and managing food and wage costs, you’ve got the tools to take the reins and keep the kitchen firing. Calm under pressure, strong with systems, and a natural leader – sound like you?

Responsibilities

• Lead a high-performing kitchen and manage a busy service with calm and efficiency.
• Write fresh, crowd-pleasing menus.
• Smash service times and manage food costs.
• Manage wage costs and maintain kitchen systems.

Qualifications

• Serious culinary experience.
• Ability to lead a tight team in a busy service.
• Calm under pressure, strong with systems, and a natural leader.