Chef

Position Title: Chef 
Number of Positions: 2
Location: Central Palmerston North
Pay Rate: $34.00 – $34.25 per hour (based on experience)
Hours of Work: Minimum 40 hours per week, maximum 45 hours per week, full-time, permanent

Job description

General:

• Prepare, cook and plate dishes to a high standard.
• Monitor quality of all food regarding flavour, portion size, presentation, etc.
• Ensure all food is prepared in a timely manner.
• Ensure all prep work is done on time and in adequate quantities to meet service requirements.

Menu Creation:

• Ensure menu items are rotated and adjusted frequently, and current menu items remain relevant.
• Create/adjust menu items as required.
• Create specials to move stock or to add variety to the menu.
• Price any new menu items, taking into account labour and food costs.
• Write recipes for other staff to follow as necessary, including instructions on proper plating and presentation.

Stock Management:

• Track stock levels and order stock.
• Determine stock suppliers to ensure high quality produce and a high quality end product.
• Resolve issues with suppliers regarding lost/incomplete/wrong/poor quality orders.

Staff:

• Interview and select staff as required.
• Train staff as required on proper cooking, preparation, and preparation techniques through written recipes, demonstrations, and general advice and instruction.
• Supervise and be responsible for all staff working your section.
• Discipline staff as required.
• Create and follow cleaning rosters, and ensure compliance by more junior staff.

Hygiene:

• Ensure section and kitchen remains clean and hygienic at all times.
• Ensure more junior staff are properly trained in proper food hygiene and safety.
• Ensure all food is stored correctly and safely, including dry stores, fridges and freezers.

Other:

• Resolve any customer/quality issues.
• Instruct front-of-house/management staff on any relevant aspects of the menu, such as names of dishes and ingredients.
• Discuss potential menu items with management.
• Confer with front of house and management on any food quality/presentation issues that may arise.
• Assist other chefs in the kitchen when required.
• Any other tasks as reasonably required.

Skills and Experience Required:

- At least two years of relevant full-time work experience as a specialty cuisine chef, preferably in a Yum Cha or similar setting.
- At least NZ Register Level 4 qualification may substitute for the formal qualification listed above
- Proven ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environment.
- Excellent teamwork, communication, and time-management skills.
- High sense of responsibility, professionalism, and attention to detail.
- Strong understanding of food hygiene, kitchen safety, and allergen management.
- Must be able to work flexible shifts both morning and evening, including weekends and public holidays.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

- Certificate in Chinese Cuisine – preferably a Chinese Level 3 National Certificate in Culinary Arts or a similar qualification.
- Valid Food Handling Certificate is an advantage.
- Previous experience working in New Zealand or in a multicultural kitchen environment is desirable.

Additional Information:

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand or be eligible for a work visa. Please indicate your visa status in your CV is applicable. Employment is subject to passing a reference check.