Chef

Restaurant Associates is a distinguished culinary service provider known for delivering exceptional dining experiences across some of the world’s most prestigious venues and corporate events. From grand gala dinners to intimate gatherings, they excel at creating bespoke food solutions that satisfy diverse palates and dietary requirements. Operating under the Compass Group, one of the world’s leading foodservice companies, Restaurant Associates prides itself on quality, innovation, and sustainability. Their commitment to excellence and ecological responsibility makes them a pioneer in integrating culinary expertise with conservation awareness, creating a unique workplace culture that values creativity and environmental stewardship.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work as a Chef on a casual basis located in Parkville, offering an hourly wage of $28.12 plus a 25% casual loading. As a Chef with Restaurant Associates, you will work in a unique environment that combines culinary skills with a strong conservation ethos within a zoo setting. The role requires you to utilize your culinary expertise to create diverse and innovative menus inspired by global cuisines and local, seasonal ingredients. There is a strong emphasis on promoting sustainability and eco-friendly practices as part of the kitchen operations.

In this role, you will be responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting food for cafes, kiosks, and catered events while ensuring consistent quality and adherence to hygiene and food safety standards such as HACCP. You will manage your kitchen section efficiently during service hours and take an active role in monitoring stock levels, assisting with ordering, and supporting seamless kitchen operations. The position also involves mentoring junior chefs and apprentices, fostering their development and skill enhancement. Your input will contribute to menu planning and the creation of daily specials that enhance the culinary offerings.

This role is ideal for individuals who have proven experience as a Chef de Partie or senior cook and hold at least a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or an equivalent qualification. You should possess strong knowledge of food safety regulations and have the ability to work effectively in high-volume, fast-paced environments. Excellent communication, teamwork skills, and flexible availability including weekends and holidays are crucial for success in this role. A passion for using fresh, seasonal ingredients and a dedication to sustainability and professional growth will set you apart.

By joining Restaurant Associates in this role, you will become part of an ecological and socially forward operation committed to minimizing food waste and reducing single-use plastics. The company offers multiple salary packaging options to help maximize your earnings, access to over 100 retail discounts, and 12 weeks of paid parental leave for primary caregivers. Clear career pathways and support to help you achieve your professional goals further add to the attractive benefits package.