About Guyala

Guyala is an award-winning, boutique café on the Cairns Esplanade, known for its inventive, modern approach, exceptional coffee, and thoughtful food that celebrates Far North Queensland through locally sourced, seasonal, and Indigenous ingredients. Set within a bright, airy space with stunning outlooks, we’ve been delivering memorable dining experiences since opening in 2020. We’re now seeking a skilled and passionate Cook to join our close-knit team and help us continue our commitment to quality, creativity, and outstanding hospitality.

The Role

As a Cook at Guyala, you’ll play a key role in our kitchen, preparing high-quality meals that showcase local and Indigenous ingredients while aligning with our café’s focus on fresh, sustainable, and inventive cuisine (including strong plant-based, gluten-free, and dietary options). This position is ideal for a dedicated professional with a flair for breakfast, lunch (and dinner service where relevant), who thrives in a cooperative, detail-oriented environment and is eager to contribute to our dynamic, high-standard team.

Key Responsibilities

- Prepare, cook, and present a variety of dishes, including breakfast and lunch items, using fresh, local ingredients (e.g., tropical fruits, seafood, and regional produce).
- Plan and develop menu items in collaboration with the head chef, ensuring alignment with Caffiend’s style and customer preferences.
- Monitor food quality, portion control, and presentation to maintain high standards.
- Manage stock levels, order supplies, and minimize waste while adhering to food safety and hygiene regulations (e.g., HACCP standards).
- Operate and maintain kitchen equipment, including ovens, grills, ensuring a clean and safe workspace.
- Work efficiently during busy service periods, maintaining composure under pressure.
- Collaborate with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and a positive customer experience.

Required Competencies Candidates must meet the following competencies:

- Qualifications:



A Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent) plus at least 2 years of relevant work experience
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in preparing and cooking a range of dishes, including breakfast and lunch items with an emphasis on using local ingredients.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of food safety standards, including safe food handling, storage, and sanitation practices.
- Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a high-pressure kitchen environment.
- Teamwork: Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with kitchen and front-of-house teams.
- Adaptability: Capability to adapt to changing menus, customer dietary requirements (e.g., gluten-free, vegan), and seasonal ingredient availability.

Additional Requirements

- Previous experience in a café or restaurant setting is highly desirable.
- Passion for coffee culture and an understanding of Cairns’ local food scene.
- Eligibility to work in Australia (e.g., Australian citizen, permanent resident, or valid visa with work rights).
- Availability to work flexible hours, including weekends and early mornings, in line with café operating hours (typically 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM).

What We Offer

- A competitive salary of $70,000 - $80,000 per annum, commensurate with experience, plus superannuation.
- A supportive and inclusive team environment in a prime Cairns location.
- Opportunities for career growth within a well-established local business.
- The chance to work with fresh, local ingredients and contribute to a menu that celebrates Far North Queensland’s flavors.

How to Apply If you’re a passionate cook ready to bring your skills to Guyala, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and how you meet the required competencies.

Pay: $75,500.00 – $85,700.00 per year

Application Question(s)

- Have you worked in a specialty cafe previously?

Experience:
- Cooking: 2 years (Required)

Location:
- Cairns QLD 4870 (Required)

Work Location: In person

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