Senior Engagement & Events Lead

Plt Engineering; Wellington; On-site; NZD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Tutaki Cafe in Wellington is seeking a qualified Chef de Partie to join the kitchen team at the Lower Hutt Events Centre. This role focuses on high standards, consistency, and creativity in dish preparation and presentation.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, efficient, and able to multitask in a fast-paced environment, following direction and feedback to deliver consistently high-quality dishes.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years' experience in a CDP or Demi Chef role or NZQF level 3 in cookery.
• Familiarity with sautéing, grilling, baking, frying, and related cooking methods.
• Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation protocols.

Responsibilities

• Set up and maintain workstations to required standards.
• Complete all assigned prep work efficiently and accurately.
• Be available for early morning shifts and split shifts as rostered.
• Prepare and present dishes according to established recipes and plating guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, sanitized, and well-organized station at all times.
• Handle and store food and equipment in line with food safety regulations.
• Monitor stock levels and assist with inventory control and ordering for your section.

Skills

English proficiency

Food safety

Cooking methods

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

NZQF Level 3 or above

Job description

We are currently seeking a qualified and passionateChef de Partie (CDP) to join our dynamic Tutaki Cafe kitchen team at the Lower Hutt Events Centre, in Wellington. This is an exciting opportunity to work in one of the city’s most respected culinary establishments, where high standards, consistency, and creativity are at the heart of everything we do.

The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, efficient, and capable of multitasking in a fast-paced environment. You must be open to following direction and constructive feedback and demonstrate a strong commitment to delivering consistently high-quality dishes.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and maintain workstations to required standards.
• Complete all assigned prep work efficiently and accurately.
• Be available forearly morning shifts andsplit shifts as rostered.
• Prepare and present dishes according to established recipes and plating guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, sanitized, and well-organized station always.
• Handle and store food and equipment in line with food safety regulations.
• Monitor stock levels and assist with inventory control and ordering for your section.

Requirements

• Proficient in English
• Able to stand for extended periods.
• Minimum3 years' experience in a similar CDP or Demi Chef role or a minimum of NZQF level 3 qualification in cookery or above.
• Familiarity with a variety of cooking methods (sautéing, grilling, baking, frying, etc.)
• Solid working knowledge ofcafé and Events is preferred.
• Sound understanding of food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Ability to follow recipes and plating specifications with precision.

Core Skills

• Team-focused mindset
• High energy and a proactive attitude
• Well-organized with attention to detail
• Professional and punctual

Working Hours

This is a rostered position, with shifts scheduled across any day of the week. Flexibility is essential, as occasional extended hours or shift changes may be required. Advance notice will be provided by the Chef in Charge when adjustments are needed.

Prerequisites

• A genuinepassion for cooking and a strong work ethic.
• A positive, team-oriented attitude and excellent personal presentation.
• A commitment to consistently producing high-quality dishes.
• Familiarity withNew Zealand health and safety standards

Applicants must have NZ residency or a valid New Zealand open work visa .