Chef/cook

Job Purpose

To lead the preparation, cooking, and presentation of wholesome, nutritious, and seasonal meals in alignment with the café’s wholefood philosophy. The Chef is responsible for ensuring food quality, kitchen efficiency, and hygiene standards while contributing creatively to menu development.

1. Food Preparation & Cooking

• Prepare meals using fresh, whole, and mostly unprocessed foods.
• Cook breakfast, brunch, and lunch menu items to order, ensuring consistency and presentation.

1. Menu Development

• Collaborate with the owner/manager to develop seasonal menus that reflect the café’s wholefood ethos.
• Contribute new ideas and recipes that align with current health and food trends.
• Assist in costing dishes and maintaining food margin targets.

1. Stock Control & Ordering

• Monitor inventory and manage food stock levels.
• Place orders with local suppliers, prioritizing organic and sustainable sources.
• Ensure proper storage and stock rotation to minimize waste and spoilage.

1. Hygiene, Safety & Compliance

• Maintain cleanliness of all kitchen areas, adhering to food safety and hygiene standards (Food Control Plan).
• Keep accurate records for food safety audits and temperature logs.
• Ensure all equipment is operated safely and report any faults.

1. Team Collaboration & Supervision

• Train and supervise junior kitchen staff where needed.
• Foster a positive, inclusive kitchen culture that supports learning and teamwork.
• Sustainability & Waste Management
• Implement waste reduction strategies (e.g. composting, reusing ingredients creatively).

1. Skills & Experience Required

• Sound knowledge of wholefood cooking, nutritional balance, and dietary needs.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and manage multiple orders simultaneously.
• High standards for food presentation, hygiene, and kitchen organization.

1. Personal Attributes

• Passion for healthy, sustainable food.
• Creative and adaptable with a willingness to experiment.
• Strong communicator and team player.

-Reliable, punctual, and self-motivated.