HEAD CHEF

About the role

We are an independently operated retirement village in Perth's Western Suburbs and we are seeking an experienced, practical and motivated Head Chef to lead our catering operations.

This is a working Head Chef role in a small kitchen team where you will work alongside one full-time Cook and take joint responsibility for all aspects of the kitchen operations. You will lead the kitchen operation from menu planning and food preparation through to service, cleaning and close-down.

The position will require some work on both Saturdays and Sundays with rostered weekdays off.

Expected hours are approximately 40–45 per week.

Key responsibilities

• Lead by example with hands-on food preparation, cooking and presentation
• Plan and develop menus that balance traditional favourites, variety, nutrition, quality and value
• Prepare meals that accommodate residents' dietary requirements and food allergies
• Work alongside the Cook to organise daily production, preparation and service
• Manage ordering, deliveries, stock rotation, portion control and food waste
• Monitor food costs, labour costs and agreed financial targets
• Maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the entire kitchen, including equipment, floors, cool rooms, work surfaces and dishwashing areas
• Ensure all cleaning, sanitising, waste disposal and end-of-service close-down duties are completed to the required standard
• Maintain food safety procedures, temperature records, cleaning schedules and other required documentation
• Ensure safe working practices and the correct use and maintenance of kitchen equipment

About you

• At least five years' experience in a senior commercial kitchen role
• Strong cooking skills and a commitment to consistent food quality and presentation
• Experience with menu planning, costing, ordering, stock control and budget management
• The ability to work independently, plan ahead and manage competing priorities
• A practical approach to cleaning, hygiene and maintaining a well-organised kitchen
• A sound understanding of food safety, workplace health and safety and dietary requirements
• The ability to work collaboratively with a small team and lead by example
• A positive, respectful approach to working with older residents
• A willingness to roll up your sleeves and undertake every aspect of kitchen work when required
• Experience in retirement living, aged care, hotels, clubs or other commercial catering environments would be advantageous

Benefits

• An attractive salary package reflecting experience and responsibilities
• A recently renovated commercial kitchen with modern equipment
• Supportive management and the opportunity to shape the catering operation
• Autonomy to develop menus, improve systems and establish kitchen standards
• A small, friendly close-working team where your contribution makes a direct difference
• Free on-site parking
• Salary packaging available