Early Learning Victoria (ELV), as part of the Department of Education, is rolling out new early learning centres. There are 18 currently operating with 6 more opening in 2027. Our centres offer long day care, 3- and 4-Year-Old Kinder, with more hours of 4-Year-Old Kinder over time and play-based environments connected to local communities. We are committed to creating enriching work environments, encouraging professional growth, and maintaining the highest standards of child safety.
ELV is approved for the Commonwealth¿s Worker Retention Grant, which provides a 15% wage increase for eligible staff.
About the Role
Opened in 2026 and co-located with Harrisfield Primary School, Early Learning Victoria Ngalambi (meaningto be at home) is a 57-place centre located in Noble Park offering long day care and 3- and 4-Year-Old Kinder programs.
Early Learning Victoria is approved to receive the Commonwealth¿s Worker Retention Grant, which funds a 15% wage increase above modern award rates for eligible employees.
In this role, you will:
- Plan and prepare nutritious, balanced meals and snacks for children in line with ELV's Eating and Drinking: Health, Nutrition and Food Safety policy
- Ensure all food is prepared to meet individual dietary requirements and is culturally appropriate to the local community
- Manage timely ordering of food supplies and stock to meet budget requirements
- Maintain a safe, clean kitchen environment in accordance with the Food Safety Act and ELV policies
- Keep the Food Safety Program updated and maintain kitchen equipment, escalating concerns to centre leadership as required
More information about this role can be found HERE.
About You
- Demonstrated experience as a cook or chef, providing high-volume, nutritious meals in a timely manner
- Sound understanding of the Food Safety Act and food handling and hygiene requirements
- Ability to cater for a diverse range of dietary, allergy and cultural requirements
- Effective communication and relationship-building skills with staff, children, families and communities
Qualifications and Experience
- Certificate in Food Handling and Food Safety Supervisor certificate
- Valid Working with Children Check; completion of Protecting Children - Mandatory Reporting online learning (or willingness to obtain)
- First Aid, anaphylaxis and asthma qualifications (or willingness to obtain)
- Agreement to a police check; an international police check must be provided for candidates who have resided outside of Australia for 12+ months in the last 10 years
For more information about the role, or to request adjustments for participation in the recruitment process, please contact Jenni Menon, Centre Director on
[email protected]
Applications close 11:59pm on Wednesday, 11 November 2026.
ELV is a child-protected organisation committed to creating environments where children are safe, valued, and respected. We maintain zero tolerance for child abuse, harm, neglect, or discrimination in any form. All staff are required to uphold the Child Safe Standards and actively contribute to a culture of child safety. Our Staff Code of Conduct policy outlines expected standards of behaviour for all staff and defines appropriate interactions with children; adherence is mandatory.
The department values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions, visit the Department website.
Applications close Wednesday 11 November 2026 at 11.59pm
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📌 Centre Cook (Early Learning) (Melbourne)
🏢 Government schools
📍 Melbourne