Food Services Cook

We’re looking for a passionate Food Services Cook to join our team, where quality food and genuine care go hand in hand. In this role, you’ll play a vital part in enhancing the wellbeing and daily experience of our residents.

About Us

At Respect, we’re proud to be the largest provider of aged care services in Regional Australia.  

As a not-for-profit organisation, everything we do is driven by our commitment to supporting older Australians with dignity, compassion and genuine connection. 

We’re a growing, values-led organisation with a strong focus on our residents, their families and our team. When you join Respect, you become part of a supportive community that thrives on collaboration, trust and the shared belief that everyone deserves to feel valued. 

If you’re looking for an organisation that invests in its people, celebrates purpose, and offers meaningful career pathways, you’ll feel right at home with us. 

 

Why You Will Love Working With Us 

• A workplace culture that celebrates people, progress, and purpose 
• Meaningful work where you see the impact you make every day 
• Opportunities to grow your career 
• Save tax by salary packing up to $15,900 of living expenses and a further $2650 for meals out, and holiday accommodation! 

 

About the Role 

Set in the warm, down-to-earth community of Mareeba, life here is all about practicality, sunshine, and genuine connection. It’s not a fast-paced city—expect hot days, a close-knit community, and a slower lifestyle outside of work. In return, you’ll find space to breathe, affordable living, and a grounded environment where people support each other and value the work you do.

Working as part of a supportive hospitality team, you will play a key role in preparing nutritious, high-quality meals that support the health and wellbeing of our residents. You’ll help create a positive dining experience while ensuring all food safety and dietary requirements are met.

 

No two days are the same! As Food Services Cook, you will: 

• Prepare and cook nutritious meals in line with planned menus and dietary requirements
• Ensure meals are presented to a high standard and served on time
• Maintain safe food handling practices in line with food safety standards
• Assist with menu planning and special dietary needs (e.g. texture-modified diets)
• Support stock control, ordering, and minimising food waste
• Maintain a clean and organised kitchen environment
• Work collaboratively with the care team to meet resident needs

 

About You 

You’ll thrive with us if you have:

• Previous experience as a cook, ideally in aged care, healthcare, or hospitality
• Knowledge of food safety standards and safe food handling practices
• Understanding of special diets and texture-modified meals (desirable)
• A Food Safety Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
• Strong time management and organisational skills
• A team-focused attitude with excellent communication skills
• A genuine passion for supporting older Australians
• Flexibility to work a range of shifts, including weekends
• A valid Police Check (or willingness to obtain one)

 

Perks & Benefits 

• As a not-for-profit you can reduce your tax by salary packaging up to $15,900 per year for living expenses, bills, rent, mortgage and groceries. Take advantage of a further $2,650 to pay for meals out or holiday accommodation 
• Training and development pathways 
• Supportive leaders who are onsite
• A friendly, down-to-earth workplace 
• Opportunity to build a long-term career in aged care 

 

Ready to Apply? 

If you’re passionate about caring for others and want to be part of a team that genuinely values you, we would love to hear from you. 

Please note that selection processes will commence immediately, any late applications may result in exclusion from the process. 

To be considered please apply now!