About the Venue

We are a craft cocktail bar with a Japanese-inspired menu centred around charcoal grilling and a solid focus on second-use and low-waste cooking. This is an exciting opportunity to join a small, focused kitchen entering its next chapter, working with quality produce alongside a team that values adaptability, consistency, and sustainability. The venue places strong importance on fostering a kitchen culture grounded in respect, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

This role offers the chance to work in a strong kitchen environment while enjoying a coastal lifestyle and a more balanced pace of work, and would suit a creative, collaborative, and team-oriented chef.

The Role

- Prepare and execute dishes to a consistent, high standard
- Support day-to-day kitchen operations to ensure smooth and efficient workflow
- Work closely in a small kitchen team (typically one chef, with support on busy services)
- Assist with menu development, including specials and seasonal updates
- Maintain high standards of food safety, cleanliness, and organisation
- Monitor stock levels, assist with ordering, and minimise waste
- Assist management with food cost control and basic costings
- Follow and contribute to standard operating procedures for consistency
- Collaborate with kitchen, bar, and management teams to deliver a seamless guest experience
- Work both independently and as part of a team

Skills & Experience

- Experience working in a commercial kitchen (casual dining or above)




- Casual fine dining or bistro-style experience strongly preferred
- Confidence working in a small team and managing service flow
- Ability to work autonomously when required
- Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene practices
- Experience with seafood is highly regarded
- Experience with charcoal or grill cooking is advantageous but not essential
- Skilled, reliable, and consistent in approach
- Positive attitude with a collaborative, team-first mindset
- Creative with an interest in produce, flavour, and continuous improvement
- Strong communication skills and ability to take and give feedback respectfully
- Calm under pressure with a solutions-focused approach

What We Offer

- Consistent casual hours and a reliable, well-structured roster
- Clear Pathway to a Full Time position for the right person.
- A focus on sustainable, manageable service
- The opportunity to develop into a full-time position for the right candidate
- A small, experienced and collaborative team environment
- The opportunity to contribute to menu development and the direction of the kitchen
- Autonomy and trust in a well-structured, low-ego kitchen
- Staff meals
- A kitchen committed to sustainability, second-use practices, and thoughtful food.

Apply Now! If you’re a chef who enjoys working in a small team, takes pride in your work, and wants to be part of a unique and growing venue, we’d love to hear from you.

Job Type: Casual

Pay: $32.00 – $38.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

📌 Chef (Port Macquarie)
🏢 COAV
📍 Port Macquarie