The Illawarra Hotel Casual Chef
The Illawarra Hotel is on the lookout for a new casual chef to join our kitchen team
With plenty happening behind the scenes and some exciting plans on the horizon, this is a great time to jump into a busy, well-run pub kitchen right in the heart of Wollongong.
We've already got a solid, motivated crew of chefs, front of house staff, and management in place. Now we're looking for someone reliable, positive, and switched-on who can fit into the team, uphold our standards, and help keep the good food flowing.
About You
Our non-negotiables are simple: respect, clear communication, and a genuine team-first mindset. We want someone who enjoys a challenge, stays calm in the busy moments, and contributes to a workplace that's good to be part of—whether you're on the pans or at the pass.
Professionally, you'll have experience working in a commercial kitchen and be confident running your own section during service. You don't need to be a senior chef, but you should be comfortable following systems, working clean, and asking questions when you need to. A willingness to learn and improve is just as important as the skills you already bring.
About Us
As a long-standing Wollongong landmark, we care about serving great, approachable pub food using quality produce at an honest price point. We value fairness, clarity, and structure—this means predictable hours, on-time pay, clear expectations, and a supportive team that actually enjoys what we do.
Some Added Extras
* We have an urban farm within walking distance of the pub, supplying a portion of the kitchen's produce.
* We're busy all year round—consistent hours, no dead season.
* Complimentary membership to a local golf simulator—perfect for split shifts.
The Details
Hours
This is a casual position. You'll be rostered based on the needs of the business, with plenty of regular shifts available for the right candidate. All hours are paid at casual rates with applicable loadings.
Rate
Casual chef rates based on your level, experience, and qualifications, in line with the HIGA award.
How to Apply
Please send your CV, outlining where you've worked, when you were there, and who we can contact for references.
Email applications to and we'll be in touch.
Job Type: Casual
Pay: $24.95 – $45.57 per hour
Expected hours: No more than 30 per week
Benefits:
* Employee discount
* Free drinks
* Free food
Ability to commute/relocate:
* Wollongong NSW 2500: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Experience:
* Kitchen: 2 years (Preferred)
Work Location: In person