Cook

The Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting menu items in accordance with the restaurant’s recipes, quality standards, and food safety requirements. The role supports the Head Chef and kitchen team in ensuring smooth kitchen operations, consistent food quality, and timely service during both regular trade and peak periods.

About Business

Canberra Hospitality Group PTY LTD, trading as Leaf Cafe & Co Woden, operates a casual dining café located in Westfield Woden. The café serves a range of breakfast, brunch, and café-style meals, focusing on fresh ingredients, quality food, and friendly customer service in a busy team-based environment.

Position Summary

The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking menu items according to the café’s recipes, quality standards, and food safety requirements. The role supports the kitchen team to ensure efficient operations, consistent food quality, and timely service during both regular and busy trading periods.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Prepare, cook, and present menu items in accordance with established recipes and portion standards.
2. Assist with menu preparation, mise-en-place, and daily kitchen setup and shutdown procedures.
3. Ensure food is prepared and served in compliance with food safety, hygiene, and WHS regulations.
4. Maintain the cleanliness and organisation of workstations, equipment, and food storage areas.
5. Monitor food quality, freshness, and presentation before service.
6. Assist in stock rotation, storage, and basic inventory control to minimise waste.
7. Work collaboratively with chefs and kitchen staff to meet service demands during busy periods.
8. Follow kitchen procedures, policies, and instructions from the Head Chef or Kitchen Manager.
9. Support training and guidance of junior kitchen staff where required.

Skills and Experience Required

1. At least 1 year of relevant work experience as a Cook in a commercial kitchen environment.
2. Ability to prepare and cook a variety of dishes in a fast-paced restaurant setting.
3. Good knowledge of food safety standards, hygiene practices, and kitchen operations.
4. Ability to work under pressure while maintaining quality and consistency.
5. Strong teamwork, communication, and time-management skills.
6. Certificate III in Commercial Cookery or equivalent qualification (preferred).
7. Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident preferred.

Why Work with us?

1. Work in a busy and well-known restaurant located in the Australian Capital Territory’s dining precinct.
2. Be part of an experienced kitchen team with structured systems and clear processes.
3. Opportunity to develop skills in a high-volume, professional kitchen environment.
4. Supportive management and a stable, long-term employment opportunity.

Reporting to: Business Owner / Kitchen Manager