Chef - Full time/Permanent

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Rosa Mexicano is an established hospitality group known for elevating modern Mexican dining in Australia. The brand focuses on bold flavours, authentic techniques, and a vibrant guest experience. Each venue blends traditional Mexican culinary foundations with contemporary Australian dining expectations.

Rosa Mexicano South Melbourne, located in the heart of Clarendon Street, is one of the group’s flagship venues. The restaurant delivers high-volume, high-quality service with a menu built on fresh ingredients, scratch-made sauces, and consistent execution. The South Melbourne team is driven, fast-paced, and committed to maintaining the standard that guests expect from the Rosa Mexicano name.

ROLE PURPOSE

The Chef will oversee day-to-day kitchen operations, maintain quality and consistency across all menu items, and support the Head Chef in delivering a smooth, efficient, and compliant kitchen environment. This role requires strong technical cooking ability, discipline in food safety, and a genuine drive to produce high-standard Mexican-inspired dishes in a busy service setting.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare, cook, and present menu items according to Rosa Mexicano recipes and standards.
• Oversee section operations during service to maintain speed, accuracy, and quality.
• Assist in menu execution, prep planning, and daily mise-en-place organisation.
• Monitor food quality, portioning, and plating consistency across all dishes.
• Maintain strict compliance with food safety, hygiene, and OH&S requirements.
• Conduct stock control, including monitoring inventory levels and minimising waste.
• Assist in ordering ingredients and coordinating deliveries to ensure stock availability.
• Train and guide junior kitchen staff in correct preparation, cooking, and safety procedures.
• Adjust cooking methods based on dietary requirements, customer needs, and service flow.
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of workstations, equipment, and storage areas.
• Support development of new dishes, specials, and improvements to menu processes.
• Monitor equipment functionality and report maintenance needs promptly.
• Work collaboratively with the Head Chef and Front-of-House team to ensure smooth service.
• Uphold company standards for cost control, portion accuracy, and operational efficiency.
• Contribute to a positive, professional kitchen culture that supports teamwork and productivity.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Minimum 1 year of experience working as a Chef or Cook in a commercial kitchen.
• Diploma of Hospitality Management or Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent).
• Strong technical cooking skills with ability to handle fast-paced, high-volume service.
• Understanding of food safety requirements (HACCP, safe food handling).
• Reliable, calm under pressure, and committed to consistent quality.

WHY JOIN US

• Opportunity to work with a recognised and growing hospitality brand.
• Stable full-time role with competitive salary and clear responsibilities.
• Supportive leadership team that values skill development and kitchen professionalism.
• A dynamic, lively venue with strong foot traffic and a loyal customer base.
• Real career progression across the Rosa Mexicano group.