Early Childhood Centre Chef

We're Hiring: Early Childhood Chef / Experienced Cook

Are you passionate about creating beautiful, nutritious meals that nourish young hearts and minds?

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Chef or Cook to join our early childhood education team. This is more than just a kitchen role - it's an opportunity to bring love and creativity into every meal, supporting the growth and wellbeing of children.

About the Role

This position is expected to begin part-time in September, with the plan to transition to full-time by 2026, as we support our long-standing Centre Cook in their transition to retirement.

You’ll ideally work 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with flexibility available for the successful candidate and a 9 day fortnight option available once working Full Time

In this fulfilling role, you will:

Work alongside your kitchen team to create and deliver nourishing meals each day for up to 190 children aged birth to 6 years

Design weekly menus that are child-friendly, balanced, and accommodate a range of dietary needs, including allergies, intolerances, and cultural preferences

Respect and support mealtime rituals that are unhurried and meaningful, recognising that mealtimes are not always bound by strict schedules

Understand and honor that children have diverse tastes and preferences around food

Uphold exceptional food safety and hygiene standards

Collaborate with educators and families to create a warm, inclusive food culture

About You

You’ll thrive in this role if you:

Have a genuine care for being around children and enjoy contributing to their daily experience

Respect that our mealtimes with children are unhurried, meaningful rituals and are comfortable working in a setting where flexibility is valued over strict timekeeping

Recognise that children have individual preferences and needs when it comes to food, and are respectful of our mealtime philosophy

Have experience cooking for groups, especially in early childhood, school, aged care or similar settings

Are confident in menu planning, meal prepping, and adapting for dietary requirements

Take pride in cooking nutritious food that looks as good as it tastes

Are a team player who brings kindness, passion, and a heart-centred approach to work

Qualifications & Requirements

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Certificate in Commercial Cookery or equivalent experience

Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (or willingness to obtain)

Previous experience in bulk cooking and kitchen operations

Current Working with Children Check (or ability to obtain)

Why Join Kardinia?

When you join Kardinia, you join a values-driven team where your role is truly valued. You’ll work in a supportive environment where:

Children are at the heart of everything we do

Creativity and wellbeing are nurtured

You can express your passion for food while making a real impact, every day

Your ideas are welcomed, and your role is respected as essential to children’s growth and learning

Our Commitment

At Kardinia Early Learning, we are committed tochild safetyand to providing an environment where children feel safe, secure, and supported. All applicants are subject to child safety screening.