About the Role
About the Employer
Our client is a well-known country hotel in the Mudgee region of NSW, serving high-quality pub and bistro-style meals to locals and visitors. The hotel has a strong community presence and offers a friendly, down-to-earth work environment.
Role Overview
We are seeking a Head / Senior Chef to lead the kitchen. You’ll be responsible for food quality, kitchen operations and staff leadership, while contributing to menu planning and ensuring that food safety and hygiene standards are always met.
Key Responsibilities
• Prepare and present dishes to a consistent, high standard.
• Manage kitchen operations and supervise staff during service.
• Maintain cleanliness, safety and hygiene, including compliance with food safety requirements.
• Assist in menu planning and food costing to support venue profitability.
Skills & Experience
• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience as a chef or cook, ideally with Head Chef / Senior Chef experience in a similar venue.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to handle a busy service.
• A passion for classic, well-executed food and country hospitality.
• Current food safety certification.
Salary & Benefits
• Competitive salary in the range of $75,000–$90,000 + super, depending on experience.
• Staff meals and discounts.
• Supportive team environment in a welcoming country hotel.
• Short-term accommodation can be provided to assist with relocation.
• Opportunity for visa sponsorship for suitably qualified candidates.
How to Apply
To apply, please send your updated resume to mahevish@theplacementvalley.com.au
with the subject line: “Head / Senior Chef – Regional NSW (Mudgee Region)
Requirements
We are recruiting an experienced Head / Senior Chef for a busy country hotel in regional NSW, approximately 20 minutes from Mudgee. The venue offers classic, high-quality pub and bistro-style food to a loyal local and visitor base and is looking for a hands-on leader to run the kitchen.
What you’ll be doing:
Prepare and present meals to a high standard in a busy kitchen environment.
Manage day-to-day kitchen operations and staff, ensuring smooth, efficient service.
Maintain cleanliness, food safety and hygiene in line with current regulations and venue standards.
Assist with menu planning and food costing to support profitability and consistency.
What you’ll bring:
Proven experience as a chef or cook, with 3–5+ years’ experience and exposure to Head Chef / Senior Chef responsibilities.
Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, kitchen management and running a busy pass. Excellent time management, teamwork and communication skills, with a passion for great food and hospitality.
Current food safety certifications and strong hygiene standards.
Full work rights in Australia – visa sponsorship is available for suitable candidates willing to relocate to regional NSW.