Chef de Partie

Grow Your Culinary Career at Balgownie Estate — Chef de Partie Wanted

At Balgownie Estate, we're not just creating dishes — we're crafting exceptional experiences that keep guests coming back for more. If you're an ambitious chef ready to run your own section, lead a small team, and develop your skills for your next big step (think Junior Sous Chef), this could be the perfect move for you.

About the Role:

As Chef de Partie, you'll own your section — whether that's grill, breakfast, pastry, or larder — bringing creativity, consistency, and leadership to every service. You'll inspire junior chefs, keep standards sky-high, and work closely with our Senior Chefs to keep the kitchen humming smoothly.

Your Day-to-Day Will Include:

• Running your section confidently, especially the grill — you know your temps, your cuts, and how to deliver perfection under pressure.
• Leading by example — mentoring junior chefs and helping them grow.
• Creating beautiful dishes to spec, on time, and to Balgownie's high standards.
• Pitching in with new ideas for menus and specials — your creativity is valued here
• Keeping your section spotless, organised, and compliant with all food safety standards.
• Working with the team to control waste and manage portioning to keep the business healthy.
• Helping with stock control, ordering, and storage — you'll treat ingredients like gold.
• Supporting your team wherever needed — you know that when the kitchen's busy, we all jump in.

Why is this more than just a job?

• Career Growth: We love to promote from within — this role can be your stepping stone to Junior Sous Chef and beyond.=
• Balanced Lifestyle: Enjoy a 4-day work week — more time to rest, recharge, and enjoy life outside the kitchen.
• Perks: Up to 50% off our award-winning wine, dining, spa treatments, and luxury accommodation.
• Support: Wellbeing and recognition programs to keep you feeling appreciated.
• Flexibility: Free on-site parking and uniform provided — so you can focus on your craft.
• Team Culture: We're a tight-knit kitchen that works hard, supports each other, and has fun doing it.

About You:

• You've mastered the basics — minimum Certificate III in Commercial Cookery and solid experience as a Demi Chef or CDP.
• You can confidently run your own section and lead a small team.
• You're grill proficient — perfectly cooked steaks and proteins are your specialty.
• You're calm under pressure and can handle a fast-paced kitchen without losing your smile.
• You're a team player and clear communicator — your section runs smooth because of you.
• You know your food safety inside out and have your Food Safety cert to prove it.
• You have your own reliable transport to get to our stunning Yarra Valley location.
• You have full Australian working rights and can work weekends — because that's when the action happens

About Us:

Balgownie Estate is one of the Yarra Valley's premier destinations, boasting 70 luxury suites, our vibrant restaurant 1309 at Balgownie, a beautiful Cellar Door, and an endota spa. Our picturesque estate hosts everything from weddings to weekend escapes — all delivered with genuine hospitality and exceptional food.

2024 Accommodation Australia — Resort Style Accommodation of the Year

2022 TAA Victoria — Regional Hotel Restaurant of the Year, Hotel Bar of the Year, HR Employee of the Year

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're hungry for growth, passionate about your craft, and ready to lead, we'd love to meet you.

APPLY NOW with your resume and a cover letter telling us about your most memorable dining or travel experience — we love to know what inspires you

No public transport available — you'll need your own wheels.

We welcome applications from all cultural backgrounds, genders, and abilities — we're proud to be inclusive.

Check us out at balgownie.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to see what makes us special.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.