LabourLens is recruiting on behalf of SJP Jamison Pty Ltd t/a Ricardos Cafe for a skilled and dedicated Cook (Australian Permanent residents and Citizens will be preferred) to join its kitchen team in Macquarie, ACT. This is a full-time position requiring a minimum of 38 hours per week. The successful applicant will prepare, cook and present breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes in accordance with the café’s recipes and quality standards. Working closely with the Chef and kitchen team, you will maintain consistent food quality, accommodate dietary requirements and support efficient service in a busy café environment. Australian citizens and permanent residents are preferred.

Benefits

• Full-time employment with a minimum of 38 hours per week.
• Superannuation contributions and applicable paid leave entitlements.
• Opportunity to develop practical cooking skills alongside experienced kitchen staff.
• Experience preparing a varied modern Australian café menu.
• Opportunities to contribute ideas for menu improvements and daily specials.
• A collaborative kitchen environment focused on food quality and customer satisfaction.

Task & responsibilities

• Examine ingredients and food supplies to ensure they meet quality and freshness standards.
• Prepare, cook, and season food according to recipes, menu specifications, and dietary requirements.
• Operate and regulate the temperature of ovens, grills, fryers, and other kitchen equipment to ensure precise cooking.
• Portion food accurately, plate dishes attractively, and add gravies, sauces, and garnishes as required.
• Store ingredients and prepared foods in temperature-controlled facilities to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, flavour, and presentation through constant monitoring and adjustments.
• Adhere to all food safety and hygiene regulations, ensuring proper handling, storage, and labelling of ingredients in compliance with HACCP guidelines.
• Maintain a clean and sanitized kitchen environment, ensuring all equipment, utensils, and work surfaces are cleaned and well-maintained.
• Estimate food requirements and manage inventory levels to ensure sufficient stock for meal preparation while minimizing waste.
• Assist in planning menus and developing new recipes to enhance the dining experience and meet customer preferences.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff and apprentices in food preparation techniques, kitchen operations, and safety standards.
• Work collaboratively with chefs, kitchen staff, and front-of-house teams to ensure smooth service and timely food delivery.
• Communicate effectively to accommodate special dietary requests, customer preferences, or last-minute changes.
• Stay updated with new cooking techniques, culinary trends, and kitchen technologies to improve efficiency and menu offerings.
• Monitor and enforce strict compliance with occupational health and safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment.

Qualification & experience

• Relevant Certificate III in Commercial Cookery with appropriate practical training, Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or Kitchen Management, or an equivalent qualification.
• At least one year of relevant experience working as a Cook in a commercial kitchen, café or restaurant.
• Australian commercial kitchen experience, as specified in the position description.
• Practical knowledge of breakfast and lunch preparation, cooking methods and commercial kitchen equipment.
• Sound understanding of Australian food safety requirements, hygiene practices, temperature control and safe food storage.
• Ability to follow recipes, maintain portion sizes and produce consistently presented meals.
• Knowledge of dietary requirements, allergens and measures to prevent cross-contact.
• Strong communication, teamwork and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple orders efficiently in a busy kitchen.
• Availability to work a roster that may include weekends and public holidays.