Food Services Assistance

A prominent Korean and Asian Cafe & Grocery Store located in the heart of Melbourne CBD is seeking a passionate and skilled Contract Cook Caterer with Hotbar/Bainmarie experience.

This role focuses on authentic Korean cuisine, Chinese yum cha, and other Asian street foods for catering events and takeaway service. This position combines hands-on cooking, event catering, and regular takeaway across the week.

**Key Responsibilities**
- **Menu Planning & Development**:
Work closely with clients to create menus tailored to their preferences and event types (food tastings, social), specializing in Korean dishes, Chinese yum cha, and Asian street foods. Assist in estimating food quantities and adjusting recipes to maintain authenticity and quality.
- **Food Preparation & Cooking**:
Prepare and cook a variety of traditional Korean, Chinese yum cha, and Asian street food dishes, using proper techniques to preserve unique flavors. Manage cooking equipment and ensure food safety and consistency.
- **Event Coordination**:
Oversee logistics for catering events, including staffing, equipment, setup, service, and cleanup. Ensure smooth execution of both catering and takeaway operations.
- **Quality Control**:
Inspect ingredients for freshness, maintain high standards of food presentation and portion control, and comply with food safety and hygiene regulations.
- **Client & Team Communication**:
Maintain clear communication with clients for event planning and updates. Supervise and collaborate with catering staff and kitchen team to ensure efficient service during busy periods.
- **Customer Service**:
Provide excellent service, promptly resolve issues, and ensure client satisfaction at all events and takeaway services. *

*Skills and Experience Required**
- Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery with a minimum of 1 year’s experience, preferably focused on Korean cuisine, Chinese yum cha, or Asian street foods.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Strong organizational, multitasking, and time management skills.
- Excellent communication and teamwork capabilities.
- Attention to detail and flexibility in adapting recipes.
- Thorough understanding of food safety and hygiene standards.
- Availability to work weekends, public holidays, and flexible shifts.

**Types of Catering**
- food and drinks tasting events
- Community and social gatherings
- Other catering events

**What We Offer**
- Competitive wages and flexible scheduling
- Supportive and dynamic work environment within a leading Asian grocery and cafe in Melbourne CBD
- Opportunities for career growth and participation in employee wellness initiatives

**About Us**

Situated in Melbourne’s CBD, our Korean and Asian Cafe & Grocery Store is a leading destination for authentic Asian groceries and cuisine, offering a vibrant selection of Korean, Chinese, and other Asian products.

We pride ourselves on delivering delicious, high-quality food and exceptional service in a welcoming atmosphere. Join us and contribute to our continued success in Melbourne’s thriving Asian food scene.

**Job Types**: Part-time, Casual, Freelance, Contract

Pay: $23.23 - $41.69 per hour

Expected hours: 7 - 25 per week

Application Question(s):

- Have you previously worked with a bain marie or in a hot food bar setting?
- What experience do you have preparing or handling Asian cuisine (e.g., Korean, Chinese, Filipino)?
- Do you have any experience in portion control or plating ready-to-eat meals?
- Can you walk us through the steps you take to set up, maintenance and cleaning of a bain marie or hot food station for daily service?

Work Authorisation:

- Australia (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Expected Start Date: 21/07/2025