Chef de Partie / Junior Chef

Melton Estate is a boutique winery and restaurant offering fresh, locally inspired cuisine in a relaxed rural setting. We are seeking a motivated and reliable Chef de Partie / Junior Chef to join our kitchen team, working Friday to Sunday from 9am to 5pm.

This role focuses on vegetable preparation, platter presentation, and dessert production, supporting the Head Chef in delivering high-quality dishes for restaurant service and functions. It’s an excellent opportunity for a junior chef to develop their skills in a professional kitchen with a supportive team.

• Prepare, cook, and present vegetable dishes, salads, platters, and desserts to a consistent, high standard.
• Complete daily prep tasks and maintain an organised work area.
• Assist with catering for weddings, functions, and corporate events.
• Follow food safety and hygiene standards at all times.
• Support other kitchen areas as required during service.
• Contribute positively to a professional and friendly kitchen environment.

Practicalities

This role requires weekend, evening and some public holiday work, especially during peak seasons. Set days being Friday to Sunday , with typical daily hours would be from 9am to 5pm, however if there are evening events on these daily hours will change and therefore flexibility is required.

• Previous kitchen experience in a café, restaurant, or function setting (ideal for a developing chef).
• A strong interest in fresh, seasonal food and creative presentation.
• Good knife skills and attention to detail.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work efficiently under direction.
• Understanding of food safety and hygiene standards.
• Available to work Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9am to 5pm.

• Enthusiasm for cooking and learning new skills
• Reliability and willingness to work weekends
• Positive attitude and ability to work as part of a team

This is a great opportunity to build your skills in a supportive environment at one of Canterbury’s leading winery restaurants.