Cafe Cook jobs

Experienced Cafe Chef / Cook – Full-Time | Monday–Friday Daytime

Neko Geelong | Geelong CBD
$72,000–$75,000 + super

Neko Geelong is an established Japanese and Asian-inspired cafe in Geelong CBD.

We are looking for an experienced, reliable and hands-on Cafe Chef / Cook who can confidently run our established kitchen without constant supervision.

This role suits someone who works with speed and urgency, stays organised under pressure and takes pride in running a clean, safe and efficient kitchen.

You will work independently for part of the day, with additional kitchen support joining later.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare and cook our established breakfast and lunch menu
• Manage daily prep and service priorities
• Run the kitchen independently when required
• Maintain consistent food quality and portioning
• Monitor stock levels and complete routine ordering
• Maintain food safety, storage, labelling and stock rotation
• Keep the kitchen clean and organised throughout the day
• Complete thorough daily cleaning and closing
• Guide and work alongside casual kitchen staff
• Communicate effectively with FOH and management

What we’re looking for

• Solid commercial kitchen experience
• Confidence running a busy kitchen or service independently
• Fast, organised and able to prioritise with a strong sense of urgency
• Reliable and punctual
• Strong food safety and cleanliness standards
• Calm and decisive under pressure
• Good communication and teamwork
• A practical, hands-on attitude

Because we are a small team, everyone contributes. This role includes cooking, prep, sandwiches, dishes, cleaning and general kitchen duties when required.

Our menu is already established, so menu development is not a core requirement. However, constructive ideas, recipe development, food-costing experience and suggestions for improving kitchen systems are always welcome.

Hours

• Full-time
• 38 ordinary hours per week
• Monday to Friday
• Daytime only
• Saturdays not currently required

What we offer

• $72,000–$75,000 + super, depending on experience and capability
• Stable weekday employment
• No regular nights or weekends
• Free staff meal and drinks during shifts
• Established menu and systems
• Small, supportive team
• Genuine autonomy once familiar with the kitchen

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to complete a paid trial shift.

If you are a fast, reliable and hands-on chef or cook who takes pride in running a clean and organised kitchen, we’d like to hear from you.

Please apply with your CV and a short introduction outlining your recent kitchen experience and any experience running a kitchen or service independently.

Pay: $72,000.00 – $75,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person