HEAD CHEF

We are seeking a Head Chef to join our fun friendly and supportive team

• Generous above-award pay rates
• Free accommodation
• Meals provided daily

We are seeking a high-performing Head Chef to lead our kitchen team at Mt Buller for the upcoming snow season.

This is a hands-on leadership role in a fast-paced, high-volume venue, suited to a chef who thrives under pressure and takes full ownership of kitchen performance.

PERKS AND BENEFITS

• Generous above-award salary (aligned with experience and performance)
• Free staff accommodation
• Daily staff meals provided
• Free Wi-Fi
• Comfortable private accommodation with shared amenities (TV, pool table, etc.)
• Prime Mt Buller location (5-minute walk to venue)

ABOUT US

Pats Italian Restaurant and Bar is an icon venue situated in the heart of Mt Buller Village. Known for our vibrant atmosphere, exceptional service and high quality food, we deliver a standout dining experience through out the snow season.

Our menu features fresh, house-made dishes including daily-made pasta and pizza dough, using premium produce. We pride ourselves on consistency, efficiency, and a strong team culture in a fast-paced environment. 

THE ROLE

As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the overall performance of the kitchen, leading from the front during peak service and ensuring the highest standards across all areas.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading, training and managing the kitchen team
• Running high-volume service with strong control and efficiency
• Maintaining food quality, consistency, and presentation standards
• Managing stock, ordering, and cost control
• Driving labour efficiency and kitchen productivity
• Ensuring compliance with food safety standards (Vic Class 2)
• Maintaining a disciplined, professional, and team-focused culture

This is a working Head Chef role — you will be actively involved in service across pans, grill, and larder while overseeing the full kitchen operation.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous in a high-volume venue
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Ability to run a fast-paced kitchen under pressure
• Experience managing food costs, labour, and ordering
• Strong understanding of kitchen systems and workflow
• Experience with Italian and/or modern Australian cuisine preferred
• Excellent communication and organisational skills

Essential:

• Advanced ability to read and control dockets across service
• Strong multi-section capability (pans, grill, larder)
• High level of accountability and ownership

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• A leader who sets the standard and drives performance
• Someone who takes ownership, not just direction
• A chef who can improve efficiency, control costs, and lift standards
• Calm, decisive, and highly organised under pressure

HOW TO APPLY

If you are ready to take ownership of a high-performing kitchen this snow season, we’d love to hear from you.

Please send your:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• References

to work@patsitalian.com.au

International applicants: written references are preferred.