Head Chef - Aged Care

About the role

Arcare Malvern East is looking for a Head Chef to play a significant role in improving the quality of life of its residents through delicious, nutritious meals. The role manages the entire kitchen, including overseeing the kitchen staff and maintaining high standards of food quality and safety. It is a permanent, full-time position, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, paid $80,000 to $90,000 plus superannuation.

Key responsibilities

• Assist with designing nutritious, diverse menus that meet residents' health conditions, dietary requirements and preferences
• Prepare and cook meals using fresh ingredients, following food handling and food safety procedures
• Monitor meal quality at every stage of preparation and presentation, adjusting based on resident feedback
• Manage kitchen stock, order supplies, source ingredients cost-effectively and minimise food waste; ensure proper storage and preservation, including freezing
• Work with Managers, Dietitians, Nutritionists and kitchen staff on residents' dietary and nutritional needs
• Ensure compliance with hygiene and food safety requirements throughout preparation, cooking, storage and service
• Demonstrate cooking techniques, guide kitchen staff and help select and train them

Required profile

• Diploma-level qualification in cookery, hospitality, kitchen management or a related field; three years of relevant experience may substitute for it
• Previous chef or similar role, preferably in aged care, healthcare or another high-volume food service environment
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and preparing meals for varied dietary needs
• Ability to plan, prepare and present nutritious meals with consistent portioning
• Organisational and leadership skills, working collaboratively with kitchen, care and allied health teams
• Genuine commitment to an inclusive, high-quality dining experience
• Australian working rights and willingness to obtain an NDIS Worker Screening Check

What we offer

• Supportive leadership, job security and professional development opportunities
• Exclusive employee discounts (Apple, Samsung, travel, health insurance, gyms and more)
• Employee Assistance Program and reward and recognition programs
• Interstate reach and mobility options