Overview
We are seeking a hands-on, talented Head Chef to lead the kitchen team at Char Char Chicken, and Cooks 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.
More than one role available.
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, productive 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.
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Other
Job function
- Management and Manufacturing
Industries
- Newspaper Publishing
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Required Skill Profession
Hospitality & Leisure
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