Chef

About Us

At Barbarian Brewing Co., we are more than just a brewpub – we are the heart of our community. Located in the vibrant inner western suburbs of Melbourne, we offer a welcoming and relaxed space where locals can gather, connect, and enjoy great company.

As a small but rapidly growing micro-brewpub, we pride ourselves on crafting exceptional beers on-site and serving them alongside delicious, high-quality food. Our venue is a hub for socialising, entertainment, and enjoying the best of Melbourne's craft beer scene. We are in an exciting growth phase, and this is your chance to be part of something special from the ground up.

Why Join Us?

• Be Part of Our Growth: Join us at an exciting stage in our journey as we expand our kitchen and grow our food offering.

• Hands-On Learning & Career Development: Gain experience in a dynamic kitchen with mentorship from our Head Chef, with opportunities to step up and lead.

• Great Team Culture: Work in a positive, supportive, and team-oriented environment where your contributions are valued.

• Competitive Pay & Perks: Competitive salary, staff discounts, and a workplace that values work-life balance.

Position Objective

We are looking for a skilled and enthusiastic Chef to support our Head Chef in running the kitchen in the exciting next stage of our growth. This role is perfect for someone with experience in a commercial kitchen who is eager to step up and take on more responsibility when required. You will be involved in all aspects of food preparation, service, and kitchen management, helping to deliver high-quality food that aligns with our brand and enhances our guest experience.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Food Preparation & Service

• Assist the Head Chef in preparing, cooking, and plating dishes to maintain consistency and quality.

• Ensure food is presented attractively and served promptly.

• Follow recipes and preparation techniques to uphold our brand's food standards.

• Take initiative in contributing ideas for menu development and specials.

2. Kitchen Operations & Hygiene

• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe workstation.

• Adhere to food safety and hygiene regulations (HACCP), including correct food storage and handling.

• Assist in maintaining kitchen equipment and reporting any issues.

3. Stock & Inventory Management

• Receive and check food deliveries, ensuring quality and freshness.

• Monitor stock levels and inform the Head Chef when replenishment is needed.

4. Leadership & Teamwork

• Support the Head Chef in managing kitchen operations.

• Lead the kitchen when required, ensuring smooth service and continuity.

• Work closely with the front-of-house team to coordinate food orders.

• Maintain a positive, team-oriented attitude in a fast-paced environment.

5. Wider Duties & Growth Opportunities

• Engage with guests and be part of the customer experience when needed.

• Reflect our commitment to sustainability through food choices and waste management.

• Contribute ideas for improving kitchen efficiency and menu innovation.

• Be part of a growing business, with opportunities to take on more responsibility over time.

About You

• Passionate about food and eager to develop your skills.

• Self-motivated and able to take initiative.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality standards.

• A positive team player who thrives in a collaborative setting.

• Independent and confident, with the ability to step up and lead when required.

• Adaptable and willing to take on new challenges.

Essential Skills:

• Previous experience in a commercial kitchen, preferably in a brewpub, bar, or casual dining venue.

• Minimum of 1-2 years commercial kitchen experience is required.

• Strong culinary skills with a focus on quality and consistency.

• Understanding of food safety and hygiene practices.

• Food Handler certificate is required for this position.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting.

• Excellent communication skills.

• Customer-oriented mindset.

• Valid Australian work authorisation or appropriate work visa is required.

Bonus Skills (Not Required):

• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (or similar qualification).

• Experience creating menu specials or developing new dishes.

• Knowledge of beer and food pairing.

Shifts

The initial shifts for the role will be dinner service from Wednesday to Thursday and both lunch and dinner on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Additional shifts and responsibilities may become available as the business grows.

Join Us

If you're a passionate, hardworking chef looking to grow your career in an exciting and supportive environment, we'd love to hear from you! This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a dynamic business from the early stages, with room to develop your skills and take on greater responsibilities over time.

At Barbarian Brewing Co., diversity, equity, and inclusion are core to how we operate. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of colour, and those from diverse cultures, faiths, gender identities, and sexual orientations. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone can thrive.

Apply today and be part of our growing team!