Position Summary:
The Cook at the Kalano Flexible Age Care Centre is responsible for managing all aspects of the kitchen including ordering, preparation, service, and cleaning. The role involves ensuring that meals are prepared in compliance with dietary requirements, hygiene standards and in consideration of the client's cultural preferences. The Cook will contribute to the overall well-being and satisfaction of residents by providing delicious and nourishing meals that reflect the cultural diversity of the community.
Key Responsibilities:
Meal preparation:
• Prepare breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks for residents and lunch and snacks for the Commonwealth Home support program clients according to the established menu while considering dietary needs, cultural preferences, and nutritional requirements.
• Collaborate with the Facility Manager and advising nutritionist to develop weekly menus that incorporate fresh, seasonal, and culturally significant ingredients and any special dietary needs or requests.
• Provide a reasonable amount of variety and menu rotation and cater to significant events (community days, Christmas etc.)
Hygiene and Food Safety:
• Adhere to strict hygiene and food safety standards to maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen environment. Ensure proper storage, handling, and preparation of food items.
• Oversee kitchen access ensuring safety and security of people and stock.
Documentation:
• Maintain accurate records of meal preparation, inventory and any incidents related to food safety or dietary restrictions.
• Produce reports of food usage and wastage regularly
Resident Support:
• Interact with residents in a respectful, friendly, and culturally sensitive manner. Report client feedback, both positive and negative. Report all complaints to the Age Care Manager.
• Monitor and evaluate service and standard of meals ensuring improvements based on resident feedback is considered.
Collaboration:
• In line with the budget and with the managers approval, maintain appropriate stock levels ensuring rotation, minimize food wastage and adhere to cost-effective cooking practices.
• Participate in staff and resident meetings and activities as directed
The Successful applicant should possess the following:
Qualifications/Certifications/Licences:
• Certificate III in Cooking (Hospitality – Commercial Cookery)
• Food Safety Certificate
• Current First Aid Certificate
• Valid NT Drivers Licence
• Valid Ochre Card
• National Police Check (no more than 2 months old)
Vaccinations:
• Covid 19 Vaccinated
• Influenza vaccinated (annually)
Other:
• Previous experience as a cook or chef in a similar setting,
• Familiarity with food safety and hygiene standards is essential.
• Understanding and appreciation of First Nations cultures and experience working with First Nations people groups
• Physical capability to perform cleaning tasks, including bending, lifting, and standing for extended periods.
• Sensitivity to the needs and preferences of the elderly and a compassionate attitude.
• Excellent time management and organisational skills
• Competent literacy, computer skills & IT skills
• Ability to take initiative and make sound decisions.
• Adherence to Kalano's Policies and Procedures
• Adherence and understanding of WHS requirements and legislation.
Employment Type: Casual
Salary Range: $ per hour (plus casual loading & other applicable allowances)
Location: Kalano's Flexible Aged Care Facility – Katherine, NT.
Hours of work: Casual hours based on roaster [Monday – Friday | between 08:00am – 4:30pm]
Indigenous and/or Torres Strait Islander persons encouraged to apply
All applications are to include an up-to-date Resume and a Cover Letter addressing your suitability for the role and apply via our Kalano's Careers page before the closing date to be accepted.
Position Descriptions can be obtained from Human Resources.
Phone | Email
Applications Close: Tuesday, 2nd December 2025