Job Post Summary
Date posted: August 6, 2026
Pay: A$80,000.00 per year
Job Description
Head Chef
The Perch Restaurant, Winery & Gardens – Lavers Hill, Victoria
The Perch Restaurant, Winery & Gardens is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead and coordinate the daily operations of our kitchen. This is an exciting opportunity for a culinary professional who is passionate about producing exceptional food, leading a high-performing kitchen team, and maintaining high standards of food quality, kitchen operations, and food safety compliance.
Located in the heart of the Great Ocean Road region, The Perch Restaurant, Winery & Gardens offers a unique dining experience to locals, tourists, group bookings, weddings, and special event guests. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering exceptional cuisine while ensuring the efficient operation of the kitchen and supporting the continued growth of the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Organise and direct the preparation, cooking, and presentation of food to ensure consistently high standards.
- Plan and develop seasonal menus in consultation with management, taking into consideration customer preferences, seasonal availability, and business objectives.
- Estimate food requirements, food and labour costs, and assist in managing kitchen budgets.
- Arrange the purchasing, receiving, and storage of food supplies while maintaining effective stock control procedures.
- Monitor food quality, portion control, presentation standards, and kitchen productivity.
- Demonstrate cooking techniques and advise kitchen staff on food preparation and presentation methods.
- Select, train, supervise, and support chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff to ensure efficient kitchen operations.
- Ensure compliance with all food safety, hygiene, workplace health and safety, and licensing requirements.
- Work collaboratively with the Restaurant Manager and front-of-house team to deliver an outstanding guest experience.
- Assist in planning menus for weddings, private functions, corporate events, and group bookings.
- Foster strong relationships with local growers, farmers, and suppliers.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and perform other duties reasonably assigned by management.
About You
Experience
- Minimum 3–5 years' experience in a senior commercial kitchen, preferably as a Head Chef or Sous Chef.
- Demonstrated experience supervising kitchen staff and managing daily kitchen operations.
- Experience in menu planning, food costing, purchasing, inventory management, and stock control.
- Strong understanding of food safety standards and workplace compliance.
- Experience working with seasonal and locally sourced produce is highly regarded.
Qualifications
- Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent).
- Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
- First Aid Certificate (desirable).
Skills
- Strong leadership and people-management skills.
- Excellent communication and organisational abilities.
- Strong understanding of food costing, budgeting, and inventory management.
- Creative approach to menu development and presentation.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced hospitality environment.
- Strong commitment to quality, consistency, cleanliness, and guest satisfaction.
Remuneration & Benefits
- Base Salary: AUD $80,000 per annum
- Employee discounts
- Housing provided
- Salary packaging opportunities
- Visa sponsorship available for suitable candidates
- Overtime pay
- Penalty rates
- Tips
This is a full-time position based in Lavers Hill, Victoria, offering a unique opportunity to join a growing hospitality business in one of Australia's most scenic regions.
If you are passionate about leading a professional kitchen, mentoring a talented team, and delivering exceptional dining experiences, we'd love to hear from you.
To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience, leadership background, and culinary philosophy.
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule:
Work Location: In person
Pay: $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Free food
- Housing provided
- Salary packaging
- Visa sponsorship
Work Location: In person
