Experienced Chef for Child Care Centre in Templestowe

At Paisley Park Early Learning Centres, we believe that exceptional nutrition is the foundation for healthy growth, learning and development. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Chef to join our team at our beautiful Templestowe Centre and play a vital role in shaping positive food experiences for young children.

This is more than a Chef role. It is an opportunity to combine your culinary expertise with a genuine purpose, creating nutritious meals that support children during the most important years of their development. Our attractive remuneration package will recognise your skills and experience and reward you accordingly. Initially, we are looking for a part-time role that will quickly grow to full-time, so tell us about your need for work-life balance.

About Paisley Park Early Learning Centres

Paisley Park is a leading provider of premium early childhood education and care. Our Centres are known for their warm, welcoming environments, high-quality educational programs and strong partnerships with families.

We are committed to providing children with healthy, nutritious meals that encourage lifelong positive eating habits while supporting their growth, well-being, and learning.

About the Role

As our Centre Chef, you will be responsible for planning, preparing and delivering fresh, nutritious and delicious meals for children from infancy through to preschool age. Working independently within a well-equipped kitchen, you will ensure all meals meet nutritional guidelines, dietary requirements and food safety standards.

You will work closely with Educators, families and leadership teams to create positive mealtime experiences while maintaining the highest standards of kitchen operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare healthy, balanced and appealing meals and snacks in line with early childhood nutrition guidelines.

• Cater for allergies, intolerances, cultural requirements and individual dietary needs.

• Prepare age-appropriate meals and textures for infants, toddlers and preschool-aged children.

• Maintain exceptional food safety, hygiene and sanitation practices in accordance with relevant legislation and centre policies.

• Manage stock control, ordering, receiving and storage of food supplies.

• Maintain accurate records of Menus, allergens, and food safety requirements.

• Collaborate with educators and families to support children's health and well-being.

• Contribute to healthy eating initiatives and sustainability practices across the centre.

• Foster a positive, welcoming and professional environment for children, families and colleagues.

About You

You are a qualified Chef who takes pride in creating nutritious, high-quality meals and understands the important role food plays in children's development.

You will bring:

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

• Previous experience as a Chef or Cook in a commercial kitchen environment.

• Experience within childcare, education, healthcare or large-scale catering environments will be highly regarded.

• Strong understanding of nutrition and healthy eating principles.

• Excellent knowledge of food safety, hygiene and NQF requirements.

• Current Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (or willingness to obtain).

• Strong organisational and time management skills.

• Ability to work independently and manage kitchen operations efficiently.

• Current Working with Children Check (or willingness to obtain), National Police Check and Child Safety Training (you can do this on the job)

• A positive attitude, strong work ethic and genuine passion for supporting children.

Why Join Paisley Park?

At Paisley Park, we recognise that great people create great outcomes for children.

We offer:

• Competitive salary package.

• Full-time stable employment.

• Monday to Friday hours – no evenings, weekends or split shifts.

• Modern, well-equipped kitchen facilities.

• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.

• Supportive leadership and collaborative team culture.

• Employee well-being initiatives.

• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children's health and development every day.

Apply Now

If you're a qualified Chef looking for a rewarding role where your skills can make a genuine difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today with your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and passion for children's nutrition.

Join Paisley Park Early Learning Centres and help inspire healthy habits for life.