Apprentice Chef - TWPZ

Company description:

At Taronga Zoo in Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, we lead conservation efforts in the field and participate in regional and global conservation breeding programs to establish insurance populations for species threatened in the wild. We also operate two wildlife hospitals that treat and rehabilitate injured native wildlife, as well as providing best practice health care for the animals at our Zoos.

Taronga has a deep commitment to conservation science. In Australia and internationally, we work with universities, governments and conservation partners to respond to challenges impacting wildlife and people. We also have a proud tradition of delivering conservation education programs that increase knowledge and awareness and inspire students to become global leaders in conservation. Taronga receives support from the NSW Government and the Taronga Foundation. Established in 2000, the Taronga Foundation raises funds for conservation, education programs and wildlife in our care.

Job description:

• Based at Dubbo's Iconic Taronga Western Plains Zoo!
• Looking for 1st year Full Time Apprentice Chef

About the Role…

We're looking for a keen individual with a passion for food to join our team and complete an apprenticeship to become a trade Qualified Chef! Work at a number of diverse kitchens across our site Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo, there is plenty to learn, and you will never get bored! You'll complete your apprenticeship working across our 4 modern kitchen locations Café Wild, Waterhole, Zoofari Lodge and soon to be Serengeti Resort, supported by Taronga's passionate kitchen leaders.

You'll be supported through your apprenticeship by one of the best chef teams in the Central west region.

This role is set up for success; we encourage you to apply if you're ready to start your career surrounded by knowledgeable and willing to teach chefs! This is an extremely unique role (based at the zoo!) and presents the opportunity for you to work with a well-oiled, passionate hospitality team, soaking up knowledge from our experienced chefs!

Some of the best things about this position is the diverse range of shifts, styles of service and cuisine not found in small kitchens , you also receive complimentary friends and family passes all year round.

Key Accountabilities…

• Undertake and learn all the different aspects of Commercial Cookery that is required as part of the Chef Apprenticeship.
• Undertake to complete appropriate TAFE training and learn all aspects of commercial cookery. Ensure that all necessary TAFE assessments are completed.
• Undertake general duties as required as part of the TAFE curriculum and apply the learnt skills and knowledge in the workplace.
• Work effectively as a member of a high performing team, to assist Taronga in its achievement of strategic outcomes.
• Comply with Taronga's Customer Service Charter and suggest initiatives for further improvement to ensure industry leading standards are maintained.
• Comply with and suggest sustainability practices in the workplace to help achieve Taronga's sustainability targets and reduce environmental impact.
• Comply with and report any Work, Health and Safety incidents in line with Taronga's Work, Health and Safety Charter.

About You…

We are looking for candidates that:

• Must be eligible to enroll in the relevant TAFE trade course
• Obtain and maintain a paid Working with Children Check at own expense.

Benefits…

Our employees enjoy generous employment conditions including some of the following:

• Flexible Hybrid work model - Taronga supports a blend of in-office, remote, and on-the-go workers!
• Complimentary family and friends passes across both Taronga's Sydney & Dubbo Zoo's
• Free onsite car parking, outside of peak periods
• A wide range of discounts on our award winning accommodation across both sites
• Discounted food and beverage purchases across the sites
• Discounted Fitness Passport
• We're a social team - there's always lots going on around the zoo that we get involved with!
• • more!

We Value Diversity…

Taronga is an equal opportunity employer, where we recognise the diversity of our workforce and community - be it on the basis of gender, age, culture, religion, language or personal circumstances.

Taronga is also committed to building on the perspectives, experience, knowledge and skills that this diversity brings to our organisation.

About Applying…

Please submit your resume and a cover letter of one page. You are also required to complete the two target questions as part of your application.

1. Please outline your experience in the hospitality industry
2. What does customer service mean to you?

Applications Close:11:59pm Sunday 13 September 2026

We offer:

When you join our team, you'll be part of something bigger than yourself, something that gives you a purpose and inspires you daily. Both personally and professionally - you'll never stop growing at Taronga.