cafe operations manager $70,000 jobs

Empower lives and strengthen community connections with Country Connect Pty Ltd.

Country Connect Pty Ltd is committed to supporting the emotional and social well-being of individuals by creating opportunities for connection with family, culture, and country. Through close partnerships with communities across the top end of NT, we deliver programs that empower individuals to build meaningful lives.

We are seeking a dynamic and compassionate Café Manager to join our Ramingining partnership, working with the Bulungkunum Aboriginal Corporation. This initiative is part of their business hub’s economic development strategy, focusing on delivering simple, nutritious meals and coffee while providing employment opportunities to participants in our well-being programs, including people living with disabilities. This role combines hospitality, community engagement, and cultural sensitivity to create a space of connection and empowerment.

About the Role

The Café Manager will oversee operations of the café, ensuring it is a welcoming space that provides employment and training opportunities while delivering healthy, affordable meals. You’ll work closely with the community, staff, and Country Connect team to create meaningful social and emotional well-being impacts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead café operations: Manage daily operations, including ordering, stock and financial management, and maintaining a high standard of service.

• Deliver nutritious meals: Develop a simple yet health-focused menu that aligns with the community’s needs.

• Foster employment opportunities: Train and mentor local staff, including participants in our well-being programs, to build their skills and confidence.

• Promote community well-being: Work collaboratively to create an inclusive, supportive space that strengthens emotional and social health.

• Adapt to a remote setting: Embrace the challenges and rewards of living and working in a remote environment, with regular travel to the region.

Essential Criteria

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to form meaningful relationships across cultures.

• A positive, can-do attitude with the creativity to implement new ideas.

• Patience, adaptability, and calmness under pressure.

• Experience as a cook, chef, or kitchen assistant, with skills in ordering, stock, and financial management.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a cross-cultural team.

• Willingness to travel, including by light aircraft, and interest in remote outdoor pursuits (e.g., camping, 4WDing).

• NT Class C manual driver’s license.

• Current Working with Children Clearance and National Police Check (or willingness to obtain).

• Current First Aid Certificate and relevant food handling certificates.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working or living in remote communities.

What We Offer

• Above-ward pay rates with flexibility in structuring your hours.

• Basic accommodation (suits a couple but not a family)

• Opportunities to explore some of the Top End’s most stunning landscapes.

• The chance to make a profound impact on the well-being of individuals and the broader community.

How to Apply

If you’re passionate about combining hospitality with community development and want to be part of an initiative that provides meaning and dignity to others, we’d love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to recruitment@countryconnect.org.au

Be part of a mission that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit of the Ramingining community. Join the Country Connect Foundation and make a real difference.