About

About the Employer:

S&VK PTY LTD T/A Pango Coffee is a locally operated food and hospitality business based in Newport, Victoria, providing quality dining services to the local community. Operating from its premises at 24 Hall St, Newport VIC 3015, the business focuses on delivering consistent, high-quality meals prepared in accordance with food safety standards and customer expectations. S&VK PTY LTD is committed to maintaining efficient kitchen operations, high hygiene standards, and a positive dining experience for patrons. To support its ongoing operations and growth, the business is seeking a skilled and reliable Cook.

About the Role:

This is a full-time position offering an annual salary of $75000 to $80000, plus superannuation, based in Newport, VIC 3015. The role provides an excellent opportunity for an experienced Cook to work in a professional kitchen environment, preparing and cooking a variety of menu items in accordance with established recipes and standards. The successful candidate will contribute to daily kitchen operations, ensure food quality and presentation standards are met, comply with workplace health and safety and food hygiene requirements, and support the efficient functioning of the kitchen team.

Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Cooking Operations

- Prepare, season, and cook a wide range of menu items in accordance with established recipes, portion sizes, and presentation standards.

- Carry out food preparation tasks including cutting, marinating, seasoning, and cooking using various methods such as grilling, frying, baking, and boiling.

- Ensure consistency in taste, quality, and appearance of dishes served to customers.

- Monitor cooking times and temperatures to ensure food is cooked safely and correctly.

- Coordinate cooking activities to ensure timely service during peak periods.

Menu Execution & Kitchen Support

- Follow approved menus and assist with menu item preparation under the direction of senior kitchen staff or management.

- Prepare ingredients to support efficient kitchen operations.

- Plating and presentation to meet business standards and customer expectations.

- Food preparation based on customer dietary requirements or special requests where required.

- Support smooth coordination between kitchen staff during service periods.

Stock Control, Ingredients & Equipment

- Check the quality and freshness of ingredients before use and report any issues to management.

- Receiving, storing, and rotating food supplies in accordance with FIFO principles.

- Ensure appropriate storage of food items to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

- Use kitchen equipment, utensils, and appliances safely and correctly.

- Monitoring stock levels and notifying management of ordering requirements.

Food Safety, Quality & Compliance

- Ensure all food preparation and cooking activities comply with Food Safety Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) requirements.

- Follow hygiene and sanitation procedures, including correct handling of raw and cooked foods.

- Maintain cleanliness of workstations, kitchen surfaces, and equipment throughout service.

- Conduct routine checks to ensure food quality, temperature control, and hygiene standards are maintained.

- Assist with compliance during food safety inspections and audits.

Workplace Health & Safety (WHS)

- Comply with workplace health and safety policies at all times.

- Identify hazards in the kitchen environment and follow safe work practices.

- Use personal protective equipment (PPE) where required.

- Handle knives, hot surfaces, and kitchen equipment safely to prevent injury.

- Maintain a clean, organised, and safe kitchen environment.

Teamwork & Communication

- Work cooperatively with other kitchen staff to ensure efficient operations.

- Follow instructions from senior cooks or chefs and communicate clearly during service.

- Support new or junior staff by demonstrating correct food preparation techniques when required.

- Maintain a professional attitude and contribute positively to the workplace environment.

Job Requirements

- Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent qualification recognised in Australia.

- Minimum 1 year of relevant experience as a Cook in a commercial kitchen environment.

- Sound knowledge of food preparation techniques, cooking methods, and kitchen operations.

- Strong understanding of food safety, hygiene, and WHS requirements.

- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

- Good time management and organisational skills.

- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

- Strong attention to detail and commitment to food quality and consistency.

- Good communication skills.