Copper Bar & Grill is a waterfront restaurant in Cairns built around a serious steak program: quality cuts, proper cooking, and a kitchen team that knows how to run a busy service. We trade to a mix of locals, repeat regulars and visitors, with a strong seasonal swing between peak and green season.

About the role
We’re looking for a Chef / Cook to join our kitchen team and take ownership of a section during service, with the grill as the heart of the operation. You’ll report to the Head Chef and work closely with the front of house team to deliver consistent, high-quality food across lunch and dinner.

This is a hands-on role for someone who cooks with precision under pressure, respects the product, and takes pride in a clean, organised kitchen.

Key responsibilities

Cooking and service

- Run your section during lunch and dinner service, including the grill, with consistent quality and timing
- Cook steaks and proteins accurately to temperature, with correct seasoning, resting and presentation
- Plate to spec so every dish leaving the pass meets the standard
- Communicate clearly with the pass and front of house to keep service flowing

Preparation and kitchen operations

- Complete daily mise en place and prep to par levels
- Handle, portion and store meat correctly to protect quality and yield
- Assist with menu development, specials and recipe costing when required
- Train and support junior cooks and kitchen hands

Stock and cost control

- Rotate stock (FIFO), label and date all product
- Help with ordering, receiving deliveries and checking quality against spec
- Keep waste to a minimum and record it accurately
- Assist with weekly stocktakes





Food safety and compliance

- Maintain food safety standards, temperature records and cleaning schedules
- Follow allergen procedures and communicate dietary requirements accurately
- Meet WHS obligations and report incidents and hazards promptly
- Keep equipment clean and in good working order, and report maintenance issues

Selection criteria

Essential

- Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent)
- Minimum 3 years’ experience as a Chef or Cook in a full-service restaurant
- Proven ability to work a busy section in high-volume service
- Strong grill skills and confidence cooking a range of steak cuts to temperature
- Solid knowledge of food safety, hygiene and allergen management
- Availability for nights, weekends and public holidays

Desirable

- Food Safety Supervisor certification
- Experience in a steak-led, grill or premium à la carte venue
- Butchery skills and experience with dry-aged beef
- Functions and events experience

What we offer

- Opportunity of sponsorship for Visa 494
- Waterfront location in one of Australia’s best lifestyle cities
- A kitchen that works with quality produce and takes its steak seriously
- Direct line to the owner and a real say in the menu

How to apply
Send your CV and a short cover note about your cooking background, including your grill experience and a dish you’re proud of, to [email protected].

Copper Bar & Grill is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants must have the right to work in Australia.

Pay: $70,000.00 – $80,000.00 per year

Perks:

- Employee discount
- Salary packaging
- Visa sponsorship

Work Location: In person

📌 Chef/Cook (Earlville)
🏢 Copper Bar and Grill
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