About the role

This is a hands-on kitchen leadership role focused on operations, team management and consistency rather than menu development or creative cooking. You'll be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations, managing food preparation, maintaining quality standards and ensuring the kitchen is appropriately staffed, stocked and organised. You'll work closely with the management team to continually improve kitchen systems, productivity and overall performance.

Key responsibilities

- Lead and manage the kitchen team during daily service, ensuring smooth and productive operations.
- Oversee all food preparation, production and service to maintain consistency, quality and presentation.
- Manage kitchen staff, including training, performance, delegation and daily task allocation.
- Develop and maintain effective kitchen systems, procedures, prep schedules and cleaning routines.
- Manage stock control, supplier ordering, inventory and waste reduction.
- Monitor food costs, portion control and kitchen productivity to maintain business targets.
- Ensure the kitchen is adequately prepared and organised for daily service, particularly during busy periods.
- Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene and workplace cleanliness.
- Assist with kitchen rostering and labour management.
- Identify opportunities to improve workflow, operational efficiency and team performance.

About you

- Previous experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, Kitchen Manager or similar leadership role.




- Strong organisational skills and ability to confidently manage a busy kitchen.
- Comfortable leading, training and holding a team accountable.
- Understanding of food costs, stock management, portion control and labour efficiency.
- Experience implementing and maintaining kitchen systems and procedures.
- Practical, organised and proactive in solving problems.
- Ability to maintain high standards of food quality and consistency under pressure.
- Hands-on and actively involved in day-to-day kitchen operations.
- Takes ownership of responsibilities and leads by example.
- Interested in contributing to a growing business and helping shape a positive team culture.

About us Bertas is a busy, fast-paced sandwich deli and specialty coffee shop based in Marrickville. We're focused on producing consistently great food, delivering efficient service and creating a positive working environment for our team. As we continue to grow, we're looking for an experienced Head Chef to take ownership of our kitchen operations and help us maintain the standards, consistency and efficiency that our business relies on.

Benefits

- A full-time leadership role with genuine responsibility and autonomy.
- A consistent Wednesday–Sunday working schedule.
- Day-time role, no nights required.
- The opportunity to take ownership of an established kitchen and its operations.
- The opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of Bertas.
- Competitive salary based on experience.

📌 Head Chef / Kitchen Manager (Marrickville)
🏢 Bertas
📍 Marrickville