Key Responsibilities

• Menu Planning & Development: Assist in designing and updating seasonal menus using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Food Preparation & Cooking: Prepare and cook a variety of café-style dishes including breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings with consistent quality and presentation.
• Kitchen Operations: Manage stock levels, ordering, and kitchen workflow to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Compliance & Hygiene: Maintain strict adherence to food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Team Leadership: Supervise and support junior kitchen staff, ensuring efficiency and teamwork.
• Quality Control: Monitor portioning, presentation, and taste to maintain business standards.
• Customer Focus: Cater to dietary requirements and special requests where required.

Requirements

• Qualification: Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent.
• Experience: Minimum 3 years of full-time experience as a Chef in a café or restaurant environment.
• Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of modern Australian café cuisine
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen
  • Excellent organisational and time management skills
  • High attention to detail
• Work Rights: Position suitable for nomination under the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa program.

Attributes

• Passionate about food and presentation
• Reliable and able to perform under pressure
• Strong team player with good communication skills
• Committed to maintaining high culinary standards

About Us

Happy Place Café is a vibrant and welcoming café located in Townsville, Queensland, known for its fresh, wholesome menu, specialty coffee, and relaxed dining atmosphere. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality café-style meals, innovative brunch options, and seasonal dishes that reflect modern Australian cuisine.

With a strong local following and commitment to consistency and creativity, we are seeking a skilled and passionate Chef to join our growing kitchen team and contribute to our continued success.

Why Join Happy Place Café?

• Competitive salary package above industry threshold
• Supportive and friendly work environment
• Opportunity to work in a growing regional business
• Long-term employment pathway with potential visa sponsorship

Our Commitment

Happy Place Café is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees.

How to Apply

Please submit your updated CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role.

• Application Deadline: 1st October 2026