HEAD CHEF FOR PREMIUM WATERFRONT RESTAURANT
We are seeking a talented and driven Head Chef to join our award-winning culinary team at 8 at Trinity, Lake Macquarie's leading premium dining destination. Reporting directly to the Executive Chef, this role requires a leader who leads from the front in every service — running the pass, working across all sections, and being fully hands-on in both prep and execution.
You'll set the standard for food quality, plating, and service while leading, mentoring, and motivating a high-performing team of 25 chefs..
We are looking for a reliable and dedicated team player looking to take the next step in their hospitality career at the leading hospitality venue in the Lake Macquarie region.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
* Hands-on leadership: work in sections on all services, including taking the lead role on the main cookline.
* Take full responsibility for kitchen operations, maintaining the highest standards of consistency and excellence.
* Develop and execute seasonal menus that showcase premium local and international produce.
* Mentor, coach, and inspire chefs at all levels to achieve their full potential.
* Manage rosters, ordering, stock control, and food costs to deliver strong financial outcomes.
* Strong experience and knowledge in software/IT used to optimise Head Chef work flows/costs: Eg Cooking the Books, Tanda etc
* Ensure the highest standards of food safety, compliance, and workplace culture are upheld.
ABOUT YOU:
* Proven multi-year experience as a Head Chef (or extensive experience as a Senior Sous stepping into a Head Chef role) in a high-volume, refined restaurant.
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and motivate a large kitchen team of 25+ through peak services.
* A hands-on leader with strong business acumen and operational expertise.
* Exceptional culinary knowledge across modern Australian and international cuisines.
* Hands-on chef who thrives in service, prep, and day-to-day kitchen operations.
* Creative, passionate, and able to deliver premium-quality dishes under pressure.
* Drive efficiency, manage costs, and maintain strong supplier relationships.
* Uphold the highest standards of food safety, consistency, and presentation.
* Organised, proactive, and commercially savvy with a strong work ethic.
* Eligible to work full-time in Australia (sponsorship may be considered for the right
BENEFITS OF WORK AT 8 AT TRINITY:
* Sponsorships Welcome.
* Staff meals provided daily
* Join our kitchen team of 25+ with development opportunities to support and grow your hospitality career.
OUR VENUE & YOUR FUTURE:
* Competitive and negotiable salary package, commensurate with experience.
* Staff meals provided daily.
* Join a large, professional kitchen team with opportunities for development and progression.
* Work in a state-of-the-art kitchen within a 350+ seat premium restaurant.
* 8 At Trinity is part of the $650m Trinity Point Luxury Waterfront Development overlooking Lake Macquarie.
* 80 mins north of Sydney and 30–40 mins south of Newcastle.
* Be part of an award-winning, market-leading venue with a supportive, talented management team.
* Available to work days, evenings and weekends. (8 at Trinity is currently closed on Mondays and Tuesdays however kitchen prep team works through the week)
This is a full time permanent position. Shifts would involve a combination of mornings, day and evening work.
NEXT STAGE
* Apply in writing to the General Manager.
* Regional Sponsorships welcome. We are approved for Regional Employment. 8 at Trinity already sponsors in excess of 20 staff.