Experienced Cafe Chef / Cook – Daytime Monday to Friday
Neko Geelong | Geelong CBD
Neko Geelong is looking for an experienced, reliable and organised Cafe Chef / Cook to join our small team.
We are a Japanese and Asian-inspired cafe operating Monday to Friday in Geelong CBD.
This role would suit someone who is confident in a fast-paced cafe kitchen, works well independently and takes pride in keeping their section organised, clean and consistent.
For the right person, there is an chance to develop into a trusted Kitchen Lead, taking greater responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen.
Key responsibilities
Preparing and cooking our breakfast and lunch menu
Managing daily prep, mise en place and service priorities
Running an efficient and organised kitchen service
Maintaining consistency in food quality, presentation and portioning
Managing kitchen stock, ordering and receiving deliveries
Monitoring stock rotation, food waste and prep levels
Maintaining food safety, cleanliness and kitchen organisation
Completing thorough end-of-day cleaning and closing procedures
Supporting and guiding other kitchen staff
Communicating effectively with FOH and management
Helping improve kitchen systems, workflow and efficiency
Who we are looking for
The successful candidate will ideally have:
Solid experience in a cafe, restaurant or similar commercial kitchen
Strong organisation and time-management skills
Confidence managing prep and service without constant supervision
Experience with stock control and ordering
Strong food safety and cleanliness standards
Valuable communication and teamwork




The ability to remain calm and organised during busy periods
Reliability and punctuality
A proactive approach and willingness to take responsibility
An interest in Japanese or Asian-inspired food
Formal qualifications are welcomed, but practical ability, reliability and attitude are equally important to us.
What is important to us
Neko operates with a small team, so reliability and teamwork are extremely important.
We are looking for someone who takes ownership of their work, notices what needs attention and can keep the kitchen running smoothly without needing constant direction.
Our kitchen is extensively cleaned every day, so maintaining high cleaning standards and completing closing properly are essential parts of the role.
Hours
Permanent part-time
Approximately ***** hours per week
Monday to Friday
Daytime operation
No dinner service
No weekend shifts
Pay
$32–$35 per hour + super, depending on experience, capability and level of responsibility.
This equates to approximately$50,000–$64,000 per year + super, depending on the agreed weekly hours and hourly rate.
For the right person, there is an opportunity to take greater ownership of kitchen operations, including stock management, ordering and progression into a Kitchen Lead role.
What we offer
Stable and consistent weekday hours
Daytime hospitality
A small, established team
Japanese and Asian-inspired food
Opportunity to take genuine ownership of kitchen operations
Opportunity to contribute ideas and improve kitchen systems
Potential progression into a Kitchen Lead role
Pay: $***** – $***** per hour
Expected hours: *********** per week
Work Location: In person
#J-*****-Ljbffr

📌 Experienced Cafe Chef / Cook – Daytime (Geelong)
🏢 target more
📍 Geelong