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 n
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Leadership & Temperament:
Proven experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef in a fast-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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Significant Application Information n
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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 (Victoria)
🏢 View From Above
📍 Victoria