Chef

Location: Clare, South Australia
Position Type: Full-time / Part-timeZest Cafe Clare is seeking a passionate and talented Chef to join our dynamic team.Nestled in the picturesque Clare Valley, approximately two hours' drive from Adelaide, Zest Cafe Clare offers a unique opportunity to work in one of South Australia's most beautiful outer regional areas. Known for its rolling vineyards, charming countryside, and a vibrant local community, Clare is a haven for those who appreciate a slower pace of life and fresh, locally sourced produce.At Zest Cafe Clare, we take pride in delivering an exceptional dining experience in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our commitment to using the finest local ingredients ensures that every dish tells a story of the region's rich culinary heritage. This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to be part of a close-knit community and a thriving food scene in the Clare Valley. Key Responsibilities:

• Menu Development and Planning: Design creative and seasonal menus including special on weekly basis that highlight local flavours and align with Zest Cafe Clare’s commitment to fresh, high-quality cuisine. Continuously refine offerings to suit customer preferences and emerging food trends.
• Cost Management and Procurement: Accurately estimate food and labor costs to maintain profitability. Source and order high-quality ingredients, prioritizing locally-sourced produce, and ensure stock levels meet operational needs.
• Food Preparation and Cooking: Prepare and cook a variety of dishes to a consistently high standard, ensuring portion control and presentation align with the cafe’s expectations.
• Quality Assurance: Oversee the preparation, cooking, and presentation process, ensuring all meals meet the cafe’s standards for flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
• Customer Engagement: Occasionally interact with guests to gather feedback on dishes, providing a personal touch and ensuring satisfaction.
• Kitchen Operations Management: Supervise daily kitchen activities, including workflow coordination and task delegation, to ensure smooth and efficient service.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Work closely with Managers and front-of-house staff to ensure seamless coordination between kitchen and dining areas.
• Hygiene and Compliance: Maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment, adhering to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations. Conduct regular inspections and provide training to staff on these standards.
• Staff Development: Train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a motivated and skilled team. Provide constructive feedback and guidance to help team members excel in their roles.
• Food Preservation: Implement effective food storage and preservation techniques, including freezing, to minimize waste and maintain ingredient freshness.
• Event Catering Support: Assist with catering for special events, offering tailored menu options and ensuring high-quality service for larger groups.
• Inventory Management: Conduct regular inventory checks to prevent shortages or overstocking and maintain accurate records of stock usage.
• Problem Solving: Quickly address and resolve any issues in the kitchen, whether related to equipment, staffing, or food quality, to ensure uninterrupted service.

What We’re Looking For:· Proven experience as a Chef or Cook in a fast-paced environment, with at least 2 years of full-time work experience in a similar role.· A passion for culinary creativity, presentation, and delivering exceptional dining experiences.· Strong knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices, with a commitment to maintaining a clean and compliant kitchen.· Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining attention to detail and quality.· Excellent teamwork and communication skills, fostering collaboration with colleagues and management.· Qualifications: Certificate III and Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent).· Availability to work on weekends, as required in a bustling cafe environment.· Willingness to relocate to Clare, embracing the lifestyle and community of the Clare Valley. What We Offer:

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
• A supportive and friendly team environment.
• A chance to showcase your skills and contribute to a vibrant menu.
• The charm and lifestyle of living and working in the scenic Clare Valley.
• We may offer the sponsorship of 482 Visa under DAMA for a suitable candidate.

Job Type: Full-timePay: $75,000.00 – $80,000.00 per yearSchedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Authorisation:

• Australia (Required)

Work Location: In person