About Us

Citizen Cafe is a locally owned cafe located in Murrumbeena, VIC. We’ve developed a loyal local following for our fresh, high-quality breakfast and lunch dishes, served in a welcoming and relaxed environment. Operating 7 days a week during daytime hours only, we offer our staff a supportive environment and excellent work-life balance. We're now looking for a qualified Chef to join our kitchen team on a full-time basis.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and qualified Chef who is passionate about food, service, and teamwork. This is a full-time role involving hands-on kitchen leadership and day-to-day preparation of high-quality dishes in a fast-paced cafe kitchen.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Planning menus, estimating food and labour costs, and ordering food supplies

Monitoring quality of dishes at all stages of preparation and presentation

Preparing and cooking meals in accordance with menu specifications and café standards

Discussing food preparation issues with kitchen and front-of-house staff

Demonstrating techniques and advising on cooking procedures to kitchen staff

Ensuring kitchen cleanliness and compliance with hygiene, health and safety regulations

Managing inventory, stock rotation and reducing wastage

Supervising and training kitchen staff in food preparation, cooking and safe kitchen practices

Monitoring and managing portion control and food presentation to maintain consistent standards

Adapting menu items to meet dietary requirements or seasonal availability

Assisting in rostering, planning prep schedules, and maintaining productivity during peak service periods

Skills & Experience Required:

Minimum 2 years of full-time experience as a chef in a commercial kitchen

Certificate IV or Higher in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent qualification)

Sound knowledge of breakfast and lunch cuisine, including current cafe food trends

Strong leadership and kitchen operations experience

Excellent time management and organisational skills

Good understanding of Australian food safety and OH&S standards

Ability to work weekends and public holidays when required

Reliable, punctual, and able to work well both independently and as part of a team

Salary & Conditions:

Salary: $72,000 – $80,000 per annum, plus superannuation

Full-time permanent position: 38 hours per week

Complimentary staff meals during shifts

Work location: On-site at Citizen Cafe, Murrumbeena VIC