Cafe Chef

About the role Flourish Cafe is seeking an experienced and passionate Cafe Chef to join our team in Takapuna, Auckland. This is a full-time position that offers an exciting opportunity to showcase your culinary skills in a dynamic cafe environment. As Cafe Chef, you will be responsible for creating high-quality dishes, managing kitchen operations, and maintaining the standards that define our establishment. This role is integral to delivering an exceptional customer experience and ensuring our cafe remains a destination for quality food and service. Key responsibilities Prepare and cook a variety of cafe menu items, including breakfast, lunch, and speciality dishes to a consistently high standard Manage food preparation, cooking techniques, and presentation to ensure dishes meet quality and aesthetic standards Oversee kitchen hygiene, food safety protocols, and compliance with health and safety regulations Control food costs through effective stock management, portion control, and minimising waste Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and productive kitchen environment Work closely with front-of-house team to ensure efficient service and address customer feedback promptly Maintain and clean kitchen equipment, ensuring all tools are in optimal working condition Develop and trial new menu items and seasonal specials in response to customer preferences and market trends Manage food ordering, stock rotation, and inventory to maintain adequate supplies What we're looking for Proven experience as a Cafe Chef or similar culinary role, with a minimum of 3-5 years in a fast-paced cafe or restaurant kitchen Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards, and health and safety compliance in kitchen environments Proficiency in a range of cooking techniques and the ability to prepare dishes to a high standard consistently Excellent time management and ability to work efficiently during peak service periods Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to motivate and train junior kitchen staff Creativity and passion for food, with enthusiasm for developing menu items and culinary innovation Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of food quality and presentation Ability to work flexibly, including early starts and weekend shifts as required Food Safety Supervisor qualification or equivalent certification (preferred) Experience in a similar Auckland hospitality establishment (advantageous) What we offer Flourish Cafe is committed to supporting the professional development and wellbeing of our team members. We offer competitive remuneration , and a supportive work environment where your culinary skills are valued and recognised. We encourage a healthy work-life balance and provide flexible working arrangements where possible. Our team benefits from ongoing training and development opportunities, and the satisfaction of working in a quality establishment that prioritises both customer experience and employee welfare. About us Flourish Cafe is dedicated to providing exceptional dining and cafe experiences across the Auckland region. We are committed to supporting talented individuals in the hospitality and tourism sector, connecting them with rewarding career opportunities. Our mission is to create welcoming environments where quality food, excellent service, and genuine hospitality come together. We value innovation, teamwork, and a genuine passion for delivering outstanding customer experiences. Working at Flourish Cafe means being part of a team that celebrates culinary excellence and professional growth. Apply now If you are an enthusiastic and skilled Cafe Chef looking to make an impact in a dynamic Auckland establishment, we would like to hear from you. Please submit your CV, a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience, and any references to hannah@prohectemploy.nz We look forward to meeting talented individuals who share our commitment to culinary excellence and hospitality.