Restaurant Head Chef jobs

Head Chef – Mantarays Ningaloo Reef

Lead the culinary experience at one of Australia's most unique coastal destinations.

Located on the shores of the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, Mantarays Ningaloo Reef is an iconic destination where exceptional hospitality meets one of the world's most breathtaking natural environments.

We're seeking a passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and shape an outstanding dining experience for our guests. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives on developing people, delivering consistently high-quality food, and driving operational excellence.

As Head Chef, you'll oversee every aspect of kitchen operations while working collaboratively with the Executive Chef to deliver menus that celebrate fresh, local produce and reflect the unique experience of the Ningaloo region.

The Opportunity

As Head Chef, you'll be responsible for leading a high-performing kitchen team and ensuring every service reflects the quality and standards of Mantarays and Belingbak Hotels & Resorts.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading and inspiring the kitchen team to deliver exceptional food and service every day.

• Overseeing kitchen operations across breakfast, lunch, dinner and events.

• Maintaining consistent standards of food quality, presentation and portion control.

• Working alongside the Executive Chef on menu development, seasonal offerings and recipe standards.

• Managing food ordering, stock control and supplier relationships.

• Monitoring food costs, wage costs and reducing waste while maintaining quality.

• Conducting stocktakes and ensuring inventory is managed efficiently.

• Recruiting, training and mentoring kitchen team members to build capability and consistency.

• Preparing rosters aligned with occupancy and business requirements.

• Maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and workplace safety.

• Ensuring kitchen equipment and facilities are maintained to operational standards.

• Building a positive team culture focused on collaboration, professionalism and continuous improvement.

About You

You'll be a confident kitchen leader who enjoys mentoring others and takes pride in delivering exceptional food and memorable guest experiences.

You'll bring:

• Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef within a premium hotel, resort or hospitality environment.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop teams.

• Excellent knowledge of kitchen operations, menu planning and food preparation.

• Experience managing food costs, stock control and labour budgets.

• A strong understanding of food safety legislation and WHS requirements.

• Excellent organisational and communication skills.

• A passion for quality, consistency and creating memorable dining experiences.

Essential Qualifications

• Commercial Cookery qualification

• Food Safety Certification

• Current Australian Driver's Licence

• Senior First Aid Certificate

Why Join Mantarays?

At Belingbak Hotels & Resorts, we believe every team member contributes to creating memorable guest experiences. We value genuine hospitality, consistency, professionalism and being part of the local community.

When you join Mantarays, you'll enjoy:

• Accommodation available for the right candidate.

• The opportunity to live and work alongside the spectacular Ningaloo Reef.

• A supportive leadership team committed to your success.

• The chance to shape kitchen culture and operational standards.

• Career development opportunities within the Belingbak Hotels & Resorts group.

• A workplace where teamwork, respect and genuine hospitality are at the heart of everything we do.

Ready to make your mark?

If you're an experienced culinary leader looking for a rewarding lifestyle opportunity in one of Australia's most spectacular locations, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now and become part of the team delivering unforgettable experiences at Mantarays Ningaloo Reef.