Job Description

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Are you a cool-headed culinary leader looking to step into a key leadership role at an iconic regional venue? The Farmers Arms Hotel Daylesford is seeking a passionate, reliable Sous Chef to help lead our close-knit kitchen team and drive exceptional standards.

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Situated in the heart of beautiful Daylesford, The Farmers Arms has been a beloved local landmark for over 168 years. Known for our welcoming atmosphere and exceptional dining, we offer the perfect balance of a vibrant regional food scene and a rewarding lifestyle in the Victorian countryside.

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If you thrive under pressure, possess a mentorship-led leadership style, and bring a passion for seasonal local produce and high-quality cooking, this is the position for you.

What We Offer n

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Work-Life Balance: Enjoy 3 days off every week with a flexible 4-day working roster to cover our 7-day operation.

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Competitive Salary: $75,000 – $80,000 per annum (commensurate with experience).

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Great Hours: Most evening shifts finish by 9 PM–10 PM—no ultra-late finishes!

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Perks: Free delicious staff meals provided on shift.

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Leadership: Work directly alongside our Head Chef in a highly structured, well-established venue with genuine room to innovate and mentor.

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The Role n

As Sous Chef, you will act as second-in-command and the primary authority in the absence of the Head Chef. You will balance culinary craft, operational planning, and team leadership to keep the kitchen smooth, safe, and profitable.

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Your day-to-day will include:

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Service & Quality Control: Lead from the pass during high-volume services; supervise all plates leaving the kitchen to ensure uncompromised taste and presentation.

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Team Leadership & Mentorship: Direct, motivate,



and mentor a team of 4 chefs plus kitchen hands, fostering a positive kitchen culture and high team morale.

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Kitchen Admin & Operations: Oversee ordering systems, stock management, and staff rostering; control food waste and labour efficiency to protect GP margins.

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Culinary Innovation: Contribute creative ideas and weekly practice aligned with our Classic European Country Cottage aesthetic, highlighting local seasonal produce.

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Food Safety & Hygiene: Oversee compliance with Australian Food Safety standards, maintaining strict kitchen cleanliness and par-level prep organization.

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What We're Looking For nn
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Leadership & Temperament: Proven experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef in a rapid-paced kitchen; cool-headed under pressure with a proactive problem-solving mindset.

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Operational Skills: Confident in managing stock, supplier ordering lists, par levels, and rosters to hit labor and food cost targets.

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Culinary Passion: Solid technique and a love for local seasonal ingredients and classic pub dining elevated to high standards.

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Flexibility & Availability: Must be available to work weekends and public holidays, with flexibility across a 7-day roster.

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Requirements: Willingness to provide a National Police Check upon request.

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Important Application Information nn
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Working Rights: Candidates must hold full, unrestricted Australian working rights . Please explicitly confirm this in your application.

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Sponsorship: Unfortunately, we cannot offer visa sponsorship for this role.

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Location: If applying from outside the Daylesford area, please confirm in your cover letter that you are aware of our regional location.

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Process: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

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📌 Sous Chef (Daylesford)
🏢 View From Above
📍 Daylesford