At Fairfield Early Learning Centre, we support every child to learn and grow at their own pace and in their own unique way. We have an exciting opportunity for a passionate, qualified Chef to join our team, managing and overseeing all cooking and preparation of nutritious meals for the children and staff each day.

The Centre Chef is responsible for the health and wellbeing of the children by preparing healthy, nutritious meals in line with the centre’s policies and procedures, the Healthy Together Achievement Program and our Food Safety Plan. The role reports to the Centre Manager and is involved in menu planning across our centres.

The successful applicant will:

- Plan menus with the Business Director, Centre Manager and staff, with oversight of all stages of food preparation
- Prepare and cook nutritious meals, ensuring a high standard of quality in dishes prepared and presented for children, staff and visitors
- Uphold and enforce hygiene standards at all times, including training staff on food safety regulations
- Manage budgets, including estimating food and labour costs, working with suppliers to select quality produce and ordering supplies
- Liaise with management, dietitians and kitchen staff on food preparation, including children’s dietary and allergy requirements
- Demonstrate cooking techniques and train kitchen staff in preparation procedures and food storage
- Assist with the selection and training of kitchen staff
- Ensure food is stored, frozen and preserved safely





Skills and attributes:

- At least one year of experience in a busy kitchen. Direct experience in a early learning centre is advantageous.
- Experience in all areas of food preparation and cooking
- A passion for food and cooking, and an interest in menus suitable for children from six weeks to school age
- Strong food presentation skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with management and autonomously when required
- Excellent organisational, communication and time management skills
- Good understanding of stock control and ordering
- Ability to follow instructions and ensure strict dietary requirements are met
- A clean and tidy approach to the workspace

Qualifications:
A Diploma (or at least 3 years of relevant experience), and hold or be willing to obtain:

- Working with Children Check
- CPR / First Aid Certificate
- Anaphylaxis Training
- Food Safety / Safe Food Handling Certificate

What we offer:

- Excellent working conditions and incentives
- A friendly, supportive team and management
- A well set-up, well-resourced kitchen
- Career development opportunities

The Advance Childcare Management team has more than 35 years’ experience in the industry. Our centres include Fairfield, Hadfield, South Street, Fitzroy, Wantirna South and Grimshaw St Early Learning Centres.

To apply, please attach your resume and a brief cover letter.

Pay: $78,000.00 – $80,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

📌 Chef (Fairfield)
🏢 Advance Childcare Management
📍 Fairfield