Experienced Cafe Chef / Cook – Full-Time | Monday–Friday Daytime

Neko Geelong | Geelong CBD

$72,000–$75,000 + super

Neko Geelong is an established Japanese and Asian-inspired cafe in Geelong CBD.

We are looking for an experienced, reliable and hands-on Cafe Chef / Cook who can confidently run our established kitchen without constant supervision.

This role suits someone who works with speed and urgency, stays organised under pressure and takes pride in running a clean, secure and efficient kitchen.

You will work independently for part of the day, with additional kitchen support joining later.

Key responsibilities

- Prepare and cook our established breakfast and lunch menu
- Manage daily prep and service priorities
- Run the kitchen independently when required
- Maintain consistent food quality and portioning
- Monitor stock levels and complete routine ordering
- Maintain food safety, storage, labelling and stock rotation
- Keep the kitchen clean and organised throughout the day
- Complete thorough daily cleaning and closing
- Guide and work alongside casual kitchen staff
- Communicate effectively with FOH and management

What we’re looking for
- Solid commercial kitchen experience
- Confidence running a busy kitchen or service independently
- Fast, organised and able to prioritise with a robust sense of urgency
- Reliable and punctual
- Strong food safety and cleanliness standards




- Calm and decisive under pressure
- Good communication and teamwork
- A practical, hands-on attitude

Because we are a small team, everyone contributes. This role includes cooking, prep, sandwiches, dishes, cleaning and general kitchen duties when required.

Our menu is already established, so menu development is not a core requirement. However, constructive ideas, recipe development, food-costing experience and suggestions for improving kitchen systems are always welcome.

Hours

- Full-time
- 38 ordinary hours per week
- Monday to Friday
- Daytime only
- Saturdays not currently required

What we offer
- $72,000–$75,000 + super, depending on experience and capability
- Stable weekday employment
- No regular nights or weekends
- Free staff meal and drinks during shifts
- Established menu and systems
- Small, supportive team
- Genuine autonomy once familiar with the kitchen

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to complete a paid trial shift.

If you are a fast, reliable and hands-on chef or cook who takes pride in running a clean and organised kitchen, we’d like to hear from you.

Please apply with your CV and a short introduction outlining your recent kitchen experience and any experience running a kitchen or service independently.

Pay: $72,000.00 – $75,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

📌 Experienced Cafe Chef / Cook – Full-Time | Monday to Friday Daytime (Geelong)
🏢 neko Geelong
📍 Geelong