Looking for a Head Chef job in New Zealand with stable daytime hours, competitive pay, and meaningful work? If you have strong kitchen leadership skills, experience in café operations, and an interest in sustainable and ethical food practices, this Head Chef role at ETHOS Café in Hamilton could be a good fit.
ETHOS Café operates as a social enterprise under Anglican Action, focusing on community support, sustainability, and quality food. This article covers the job responsibilities, eligibility, salary, work rights, and application process, helping you decide if this role matches your skills and career goals.
Job Overview
- Job Title: Head Chef
- Location: Hamilton East, Waikato, New Zealand
- Industry: Hospitality / Tourism / Café Operations
- Hiring Company Type: Social Enterprise Café
- Job Type: Full-Time
- Working Hours: 40 hours per week
- Work Schedule: Tuesday to Saturday
- Shift Timing: Between 6:00 AM and 3:00 PM
- Job Demand: Medium (experienced leadership role)
Job Responsibilities
- Oversee daily kitchen operations and overall kitchen management
- Plan and develop seasonal menus to support efficient ordering
- Maintain a high and consistent standard of food quality
- Prepare a variety of fresh sweet and savoury menu items
- Lead, train, and supervise kitchen staff
- Ensure compliance with food health and safety regulations
- Implement and manage the Food Control Plan
- Reduce food wastage through sustainable kitchen practices
- Plan and order accurate stock quantities in a timely manner
- Support and grow the catering side of the business
- Work with wider teams to guide kitchen garden planning
- Use seasonal produce to reduce costs and food waste
Eligibility Criteria
- Age Limit: 18+ years
- Education:
- No formal qualification required (culinary qualifications preferred)
- Experience:
- Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a café
- Skills:
- Kitchen leadership and team management
- Menu planning and cost control
- Food Control Plan implementation
- Strong communication and time management
- Ability to work under pressure and unsupervised
- Language Requirement:
- Fluent English communication
- Work Rights:
- Must have legal right to work in New Zealand
Salary & Benefits
| Details | Info |
|---|---|
| Hourly Pay | NZD $30 – $35 per hour |
| Job Type | Full-Time |
| Weekly Hours | 40 hours |
| Shift Type | Day shifts only |
| Public Holidays | All public holidays off |
| Christmas Break | Two weeks closure |
| Extra Benefit | Paid weekday birthday leave |
| Work Environment | Community-focused, purpose-driven café |
Visa & Documents
- Visa Sponsorship: Not available
- Required Documents:
- Updated CV
- Cover Letter
- Proof of right to work in New Zealand
- Valid Passport
- Full New Zealand Driver’s Licence
- Medical:
- Good physical health
- Police Check:
- May be required
How to Apply
- Prepare a CV highlighting your café and leadership experience
- Write a cover letter explaining your suitability for a Head Chef role
- Confirm your legal right to work in New Zealand
- Apply through the official employer job listing or recruitment platform
- Attend interview and kitchen assessment if shortlisted
👉 Apply Now for Head Chef Job in New Zealand
Important Tips for Job Seekers
- Highlight leadership and menu planning experience
- Emphasise sustainability and ethical food knowledge
- Be prepared to discuss Food Control Plan management
- Show flexibility for catering and operational needs
- Apply only through official and verified employer channels
FAQs
Q1: Is prior Head Chef experience required?
Yes, at least two years of Head Chef or Sous Chef experience is required.
Q2: Are the working hours flexible?
Yes, daytime shifts apply, with some flexibility within operating hours.
Q3: Is visa sponsorship available?
No, applicants must already have New Zealand work rights.
Q4: Does the role include catering work?
Yes, supporting and developing catering services is part of the role.
Q5: Are weekends required?
Yes, the role operates Tuesday to Saturday.