• Genuine work–life balance – daytime-only roster, no nights, no burn-out
• Strong operational systems – leadership that values doing things properly
• Ongoing qualified training – accredited on-the-job and external management training (we invest in your future leadership)
• Real autonomy and accountability – you'll be trusted to lead and make decisions
• A stable, well-established business – a loyal and established customer base
• Secure underground car park available
• A growth-focused environment – driven by continuous improvement

Square & Compass Café is a long-standing East Melbourne institution, known for quality food, exceptional coffee and consistently high standards of service.

With experienced hospitality operators leading the business, Square & Compass is focused on building a high-performing kitchen operation grounded in strong systems, a positive team culture, and delicious, well-executed food.

This creates an outstanding opportunity for a talented and driven Head Chef to lead the kitchen of one of East Melbourne's most respected daytime venues.

Head Chef – Square & Compass Café

East Melbourne | Daytime roster only

Why work with us?

• Genuine work–life balance – daytime-only roster, no nights, no burn-out
• Strong operational systems – leadership that values doing things properly
• Ongoing professional training – accredited on-the-job and external management training (we invest in your future leadership)
• Real autonomy and accountability – you'll be trusted to lead and make decisions
• A stable, well-established business – a loyal and established customer base
• Secure underground car park available
• A growth-focused environment – driven by continuous improvement

Square & Compass Café is a long-standing East Melbourne institution, known for quality food, exceptional coffee and consistently high standards of service.

With experienced hospitality operators leading the business,



Square & Compass is focused on building a high-performing kitchen operation grounded in strong systems, a positive team culture, and delicious, well-executed food.

This creates an outstanding opportunity for a talented and driven Head Chef to lead the kitchen of one of East Melbourne's most respected daytime venues.

About the role

This is a hands-on leadership position for a chef who enjoys running an organised, professional kitchen within a supportive, like-minded team environment.

You’ll work closely with front-of-house leadership and ownership to deliver consistently high standards, smooth service, and food that is thoughtful, well-executed, and genuinely delicious.

The focus is on quality produce, strong fundamentals, and creating honest, well-crafted dishes — not gimmicks — within a well-structured daytime operation.

About you

We're looking for an experienced and career-focused kitchen leader who brings:

• Head Chef experience or a strong Sous Chef ready to step up
• Experience in quality café or restaurant kitchens
• Strong leadership, training and team development skills
• Excellent organisation and service execution
• Solid food cost control and operational discipline
• Pride in quality, consistency and standards
• A genuine passion for grounded, delicious food

This role is ideal for a chef who wants to lead a professional kitchen and build something long term.

This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a high-performing daytime kitchen within a well-run Melbourne hospitality business.

If you're ready to step into a leadership role with real balance, support and long-term opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now for a confidential discussion.
*Immediate start available.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Proven high-quality experience is essential.

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📌 Daytime Head Chef | Kitchen Leader, Quality Café (Melbourne)
🏢 Square And Compass
📍 Melbourne