Who we are

Ghanem Group is a pioneering, award-winning, family-owned hospitality group with a 45-year history in Queensland and Victoria. We’ve grown carefully to where we are today, and our sights are firmly set on the role we will continue to play in the future of Australia’s exciting and evolving hospitality landscape. Ghanem Group is recognised for exceptional service, hospitality, and the ability to create unforgettable dining experiences in cutting-edge designed venues.

Blackbird Melbourne is our latest jewel. Located at 66 Flinders Lane, within the Collins Place precinct, Blackbird brings the signature spirit of Blackbird Brisbane into Melbourne — three stunning levels offering a wine bar, fine dining restaurant, and versatile event/private dining rooms. Drawing on rich flavours, fire-cooked meats, dry ageing, and seasonal botanicals, Blackbird Melbourne is a place where modern technique meets warmth and character.

Opportunity

We’re seeking a Junior Sous Chef to join our opening kitchen team at Blackbird Melbourne. As second-in-command under the Head Chef, you will play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality, innovative dishes that delight guests with every bite. You’ll help shape kitchen operations, support & mentor staff, maintain standards, and contribute to the evolution of our culinary identity. If you have a passion for excellence, creativity, and thrive in a fast-paced, design-led environment, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

You will be expected to:

Study each menu item; prepare all ingredients needed for service (prep, portioning, etc.)

Ensure food is cooked and plated in a timely manner, to a high standard of presentation

Oversee and assist cdp's and kitchen hands during service; provide guidance and support where needed

Make slight modifications to recipes to accommodate dietary requests (e.g. allergies, gluten-free, reduce salt/dairy etc.)

Monitor food stock, contribute to order placing and forecasting demand

Check freshness and quality of ingredients; ensure expired or sub-par items are discarded

Experiment with new recipes / ingredients; suggest improvements to menu items

Ensure full compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations

Maintain and enforce kitchen policies and procedures; ensure all kitchen staff are trained and compliant

Skills & Attributes

Successful candidates will have:

At least 2 years experience in a similar role (Sous or Junior Sous) in high-quality, busy restaurant / fine dining / high volume kitchen environment

Good knowledge of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and standard procedures

Strong kitchen & staff management skills; ability to delegate, supervise, mentor

Excellent time management; ability to handle pressure and solve problems on the fly

Up-to-date culinary knowledge and technique; openness to innovation while respecting flavour, balance, and consistency

Familiarity with sanitation, safety regulations, HACCP or equivalents

Strong leadership / people skills; good communication; ability to motivate and work well with a team

Offer

Amazing discounts at all Ghanem Group venues

Very attractive remuneration package: generous base salary plus superannuation

Career & development opportunities; learn from the best chefs and grow with us

Career and development opportunities, learning from the best.

To learn more about this role, submit your application.

Please note that only candidates who have full working rights in Australia will be considered for this opportunity.

Melbourne, VIC, 3000