Catering and Events Head Chef
Just Graze Catering Co. is a growing catering and events business based on the Mornington Peninsula, specialising in professional drop-off catering services and events. We're looking for a professional, creative and well organised Chef to manage the day-to-day operations of our busy production kitchen. We're passionate about delivering exceptional food and service while maintaining efficient systems and a fun and positive team culture.
Key Responsibilities
· Lead a collaboratively team by meeting production schedules and event requirements to achieve a high level of guest satisfaction.
· Work across a diverse range of creative and exciting event and catering briefs, with the opportunity to bring your ideas, skills and experience to a variety of projects.
· Previous experience using Microsoft Calendar and following production schedules to plan and coordinate multiple menu items.
· Manage BOH operations including - food ordering, stock management and kitchen organisation to ensure ingredients are available, stored correctly and used efficiently.
· Work efficiently in a fast-paced commercial catering kitchen and follow instructions from Director and FOH/Client facing team.
· Pre-plan and manage professional kitchen operations and food service across private and public events, representing the business with professionalism, discretion and respect for clients’ privacy, particularly when working in private homes.
· Prepare and cook a variety of hot and cold dishes in bulk, following recipes, menu and dietary specifications and maintaining quality standards.
· Complete quality checks and follow all food safety, hygiene and workplace safety requirements, including HACCP.
· Use strong knife skills and kitchen equipment safely and efficiently, while maintaining portion control and minimising waste.
What We're Looking For
· Qualified Chef with previous experience in fast paced commercial catering kitchens and onsite events.
· Proven experience to lead and support a team, communicate clearly and work collaboratively to meet production schedules and event requirements.
· Microsoft Calendar and administrative skills, including completing records, managing orders, checking stock and supporting the day-to-day organisation of the kitchen.
· Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to manage food ordering, stock, kitchen operations and event preparation efficiently.
· Takes pride in delivering consistently high-quality food, with strong cooking, knife and food preparation skills.
· Understands and follows food safety, hygiene and workplace safety requirements, including HACCP, while managing dietary requirements carefully.
· Willing to remain flexible, take initiative, follow direction and get involved in all aspects of kitchen operations, from preparation and service through to pack-down and cleaning.
· Current full driver's licence to drive company van to and from events
Why Join Us?
Creative and varied work with flexible hours, minimal evening work and a diverse range of private and public events.
A sustainable role alternative to the traditional high-pressure restaurant environment.
Be part of a growing and successful catering business in a supportive, collaborative and positive team culture.
Opportunities for professional growth and development.
Flexible working hours to meet catering deadlines (40 hours per week) for the right candidate.
Pay: $80,000.00 – $90,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
