HEAD CHEF FOR LEADING CHICKEN SHOP
We are seeking a hands-on, talented Head Chef to lead the kitchen team at Char Char Chicken for our exciting new fast-casual concept in the Watagan Park Town Centre, Lake Macquarie. With a menu built around charcoal-grilled, rotisserie, and fried chicken, plus gourmet burgers, wraps, gourmet salads, sides, and more, this role is perfect for a chef passionate about delivering quality food in a high-volume takeaway environment.
Located at Watagan Park Town Centre in Cooranbong, this brand-new venue sits near the shores of beautiful Lake Macquarie — just a short drive from both Newcastle and the Central Coast. It's an easy commute and a chance to work in a stunning lifestyle location close to home.
ABOUT THE HEAD CHEF ROLE
* Lead daily kitchen operations in a premium fast-casual takeaway setting.
* Be a hands-on Head Chef — working prep, cooking on the line, and running sections during busy services.
* Showcase mastery of charcoal grilling, French rotisserie cooking, and fried chicken techniques.
* Maintain consistency and quality across a wide-ranging menu, from chicken meals to burgers, wraps, gourmet salads, sides, and desserts.
* Manage kitchen staff, rostering, ordering, stock control, and food costs with commercial efficiency.
* Uphold food safety standards and compliance while cultivating a positive, productive kitchen culture.
* Report directly to the Executive Chef & General Manager and collaborate on menu innovation, seasonal specials, and operational improvements.
ABOUT YOU AS A HEAD CHEF
* Proven experience as a Head Chef (or strong Sous stepping up) in a busy high-volume restaurant, QSR, or premium takeaway environment.
* Deep expertise in charcoal, rotisserie, and fried chicken cookery including the operation of best in class cooking equipment. Strong advantage if you have worked in a similar position of a restaurant serving similar style chicken.
* Organised and proactive with strong leadership skills to manage and inspire a fast-paced kitchen team.
* Passion for balancing speed, consistency, and quality — delivering food quickly without compromise.
* Commercially savvy, with the ability to manage costs and optimise operations.
* Creative flair for developing specials, sauces, and menu innovations in line with the Char Char Chicken brand.
* Eligible to work full-time in Australia
BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH CHAR CHAR CHICKEN
* Competitive salary package, commensurate with experience.
* Staff meals provided daily.
* Opportunity to grow with a new brand set for long-term expansion in Lake Macquarie.
* Be part of a creative, ambitious hospitality group
* Modern, efficient kitchen with state-of-the-art equipment.
* Work in a dynamic venue serving a growing new community of over 3,500 homes.
NEXT STAGE
* Apply in writing to the General Manager with your CV and cover letter.