Cook

Bar-b-q Nation (operated by Mahadev Hospitality) is an authentic dining destination located in Werribee, delivering rich, traditional barbeque flavours and memorable culinary experiences. We are currently seeking a passionate, reliable, and qualified cook (ANZSCO ******) to join our dynamic kitchen team. Operating across peak lunch and dinner shifts, we offer a high-volume, collaborative environment for a skilled professional committed to culinary excellence and food safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Examine raw foodstuffs, fresh produce, poultry, seafood, and meats upon receipt to verify freshness and strict adherence to HACCP hygiene protocols.
• Regulate and monitor operating temperatures of commercial ovens, grills, fryers, char-broilers, and other cooking equipment to maintain consistent cooking quality and safety.
• Prepare, season during the cooking process, and cook a wide variety of quality dishes in accordance with established kitchen recipes and portion guidelines.
• Accurately portion food, arrange items onto plates or serving platters, and add gravies, sauces, and garnishes to ensure proper presentation before table delivery.
• Prepare and cook modified dishes to safely cater to special dietary requirements, including severe food allergies, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan requests.
• Store raw ingredients, prepared batches, and cooked items in designated temperature-controlled cool rooms and freezers, adhering strictly to stock rotation (FIFO) guidelines.
• Assist senior kitchen management with planning daily specials, estimating ingredient requirements, monitoring inventory levels, and minimising food wastage.
• Assist in guiding and training apprentices, kitchen hands, and junior team members in food preparation techniques, kitchen cleanliness, and workplace safety.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation across all prep benches, cooking stations, and storage areas in compliance with state food safety and OHS standards.

Key Requirements

• AQF Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (incorporating at least two years of on-the-job training), AQF Certificate IV, or at least three years of documented relevant commercial cookery experience.
• Valid Food Handler / Food Safety Supervisor certification.
• Minimum of 1 to 2 years of relevant post-qualification commercial cookery experience in a high-volume restaurant, hotel, or catering setting.
• Strong command of commercial cookery techniques, station organisation, knife skills, and high-volume service delivery.
• Fluent English language proficiency, suitable for clear communication in safety-critical team environments and immigration compliance requirements.
• Ability to handle physical demands, stand for extended periods, and perform effectively under high-demand service periods.

What We Offer

• $79,500 base salary per annum (guaranteed on a standard 38-hour week, paid fortnightly) + 12% superannuation.
• Full-time permanent contract offering job security and statutory leave entitlements (annual leave, personal leave).
• Supportive kitchen culture with opportunities for ongoing career development and culinary skill enhancement.
• Opportunities for long-term career growth, professional advancement, and leadership development within our expanding culinary team.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your updated resume, cover letter, current visa status, and copies of your relevant commercial cookery qualifications.