**Job Title: Head Chef OR Sous Chef**
**Industry:** Hospitality & Tourism
**Country:** Australia
**Job Summary:**
As the Head Chef at Cheek Cafe, you will be responsible for leading the culinary team in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen. You will create innovative menus that reflect seasonal ingredients and local flavors while ensuring quality control and maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene. Your leadership will inspire and train junior kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative environment to deliver memorable dining experiences to our guests.
The Sous Chef position is also available.
**Key Responsibilities:**
– Develop and design creative menus that appeal to our diverse clientele while adhering to seasonal trends and local ingredients.
– Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, presentation, and service.
– Maintain the highest standards of food quality, taste, and presentation.
– Manage food cost controls, inventory, and ordering supplies to maximize profitability while minimizing waste.
– Train, mentor, and supervise kitchen staff, ensuring adherence to company policies and procedures.
– Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, hygiene standards, and sanitation practices.
– Collaborate with restaurant management to plan special events, catering services, and promotions.
– Conduct staff performance evaluations and foster a positive work environment through effective communication and team-building.
– Stay current with culinary trends, techniques, and technologies to enhance menu offerings and kitchen operations.
**Required Skills:**
– Exceptional culinary skills, with a strong knowledge of various cooking techniques and cuisines.
– Proven leadership abilities, with experience managing and motivating kitchen staff.
– Strong organizational and time-management skills, capable of multitasking in a high-pressure environment.
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with team members, management, and guests.
– Creative mindset with the ability to innovate and adapt menus according to seasonal changes and customer feedback.
– Proficient in food safety and sanitation standards.
**Qualifications:**
– Minimum of 5 years of experience in a professional kitchen, and ready to take on a supervisory role in the kitchen.
– Culinary arts degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
– Strong understanding of inventory management and food cost control.
– Knowledge of contemporary cooking techniques and trends.
– Certification in food safety and hygiene practices.
– Valid working rights in Australia.
**Preferred Qualifications:**
– Experience in cafes, or high-volume kitchens.
– Proven track record of implementing successful culinary programs and initiatives.
**Application Process:**
Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter detailing relevant experience and culinary philosophy to hello@cheekcafe.com.au. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.