About the Role
About the Employer
Our client is a contemporary restaurant & bar in South Yarra offering Mediterranean-inspired tapas and Modern European cuisine in a stylish, design-focused setting. Multiple spaces—including a light-filled bar—host everything from relaxed dining to private events. The menu showcases quality local ingredients in simple, delicious dishes made for sharing.
Role Overview
We are recruiting a Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in delivering a high-quality, consistent food offering. You will lead a section, help maintain high standards during service and play a key role in training and supporting the kitchen team. Immediate starters are strongly preferred; employer sponsorship may be available after 3–4 weeks of successful kitchen performance.
Key Responsibilities
• Run an allocated section (grill, larder, pans or pasta) and support the pass, ensuring dockets are managed and dishes are plated to spec.
• Execute mise en place for Mediterranean tapas and Modern European dishes, maintaining quality, speed and consistency.
• Train and coach CDPs and Commis; maintain prep lists, labels and clear handover notes for smooth transitions between shifts.
• Assist with day-to-day ordering to par, stock rotation (FIFO) and waste monitoring within your section.
• Enforce food safety, allergen protocols and strict workstation hygiene.
• Step up to lead service in the Head Chef’s absence and assist with events, functions and menu testing.
Skills & Qualifications
• 2–3+ years’ experience as a Sous Chef or strong CDP in comparable, quality venues.
• Strong section leadership skills and reliable pass support during busy services.
• Good understanding of Mediterranean tapas and Modern European techniques.
• Strong mise en place organisation, speed and attention to detail.
• Allergen awareness and excellent hygiene practices.
• Basic inventory and waste control skills.
• Culinary qualification preferred and Food Handling certificate required (or willingness to obtain quickly).
Additional Requirements
• Valid Australian work rights or eligibility for employer sponsorship (post 3–4 weeks of successful performance).
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends and events as rostered.
• A police check and professional references may be requested.
• A trial or stage may be included in the recruitment process.
Salary & Benefits
• Full-time role with a salary of $76,000–$77,000 + super, plus participation in tips pool where applicable.
• Creative input on dishes and specials; opportunity to grow alongside a design-forward venue and expanding events program.
• Supportive, team-focused environment with modern systems and strong leadership.
How to Apply
To apply, please email your updated resume to mahevish@theplacementvalley.com.au
with the subject line: “Sous Chef – South Yarra (Mediterranean/Modern European)”.
Please include your:
• Availability and earliest start date
• Current visa / work rights status and any sponsorship needs
• Brief overview of your experience in Mediterranean/Modern European venues
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Sponsorship may be available after a successful initial period in the role.
Requirements
We are seeking a Sous Chef for a modern Mediterranean-tapas & Modern European restaurant and bar in South Yarra. This full-time role is ideal for a strong CDP/Sous ready to take ownership of a section, support the pass and grow into more responsibility.
What you’ll be doing:
Running a section (grill, larder, pans or pasta) and supporting the pass to ensure dockets are sent on time and plated to spec.
Executing mise en place for tapas and Modern European dishes with consistency, speed and attention to detail.
Training and coaching CDPs and Commis; maintaining prep lists, labelling and clear handover notes.
Managing day-to-day ordering to par, stock rotation and waste minimisation within your section.
Enforcing food safety, allergen protocols and workstation hygiene at all times.
Stepping up to lead service in the Head Chef’s absence and assisting with events and menu testing.
What you’ll bring:
2–3+ years’ experience as a Sous Chef or strong CDP in comparable venues.
Solid knowledge of Mediterranean tapas and Modern European techniques.Strong mise en place systems, speed and consistency under pressure.
Good understanding of allergens, hygiene and safe food handling.
Basic inventory skills (ordering to par, rotation, waste control).• Positive influence in the kitchen; supports and trains juniors to standard.
Qualifications & additional requirements:
Culinary qualification preferred; Food Handling certificate required (or willingness to obtain promptly).
Valid Australian work rights or eligibility for employer sponsorship (sponsorship may be available after 3–4 weeks of proven performance).
Immediate or short-notice availability preferred, with flexibility for nights, weekends and events.
Police check, references and a trial/stage may be requested.