Chefs - CDP and Commis

About us

HQ Group’s (Arbory Bar & Eatery, HER, Straight Up Cocktails) annual pop-up eatery and bar, AFLOAT, is back on the banks of the 'Birrarung', bringing a fresh new experience to Melbourne's CBD from September through to June.

Each season, AFLOAT transforms with a completely new fit-out, design and theme, inspired by our favourite international destinations. Season 11 is a vibrant celebration of the Greek Islands - combining bold design, great food and drinks, with music, entertainment and an atmosphere built around good times.

We are looking for enthusiastic CDP’s & Commis Chefs who love the energy of a busy service and want to be part of a high-performing kitchen team.

About the role

This is a hands-on opportunity to work in a high-volume, high-energy kitchen where pace, precision and consistency are key. You'll be part of a team delivering a quality food offering to a busy venue, learning from experienced chefs and building your skills along the way.

• Thrive in high-volume service while maintaining quality, consistency and attention to detail
• Work across lunch and dinner service in a fast-paced kitchen environment
• Take pride in your section, preparation and execution
• Work collaboratively with the wider kitchen team to delivery smooth, efficient service
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene and workplace safety
• Learn, develop and take on greater responsibility throughout the season
• Be supported by an experienced and approachable senior kitchen team

What we are looking for

We're looking for chefs who bring energy, resilience and a genuine passion for hospitality

• Trade qualified, motivated to learn, develop and push yourself in a busy environment

• Passionate about quality produce, flavour and simple well-executed food

• Chefs who have worked with varying cuisines from Euro to Japanese, including Sushi making experience

• Comfortable working under pressure and maintaining high standards during peak service

• Team player, who thrives in a collaborative and communicative workplace

• Availability to work on a rotating roster including weekends and public holidays

What you can expect from us

• Professional and modern well equipped kitchen
• Be part of one of Melbourne's most unique seasonal hospitality venues
• Opportunities to develop your skills and progress within HQ Group
• A supportive and approachable Senior Management team
• Generous staff discounts across our venues
• Multiple transport options with trains and trams on our doorstep
• A food offering you can be proud to deliver
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - a free & confidential well being support service
• Uniform provided
• Salaried seasonal contract Aug to May

If you're at your best when the kitchen is busy, we want to hear from you. Join AFLOAT Season 11 and be part of a team delivering an unforgettable Melbourne hospitality experience all season long.

While we take the time to review all applications, only those suitable will be contacted for an interview. All applications will be treated with confidentiality.

HQ Group provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type, without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, status, genetics, equal orientation, gender identity or expression.