Head Chef

About Knird Knird is an intimate, highly regarded 50-seat wine bar and restaurant in Crows Nest. Five years in, we're known for our thoughtful wine program, seasonal share plates, and warm, guest-facing service. We are a community-focused venue built on kindness, respect, and a genuine passion for what we do.

The Opportunity We are seeking a Head Chef and creative partner to take full ownership of our kitchen. You will have the autonomy to design, build, and execute a seasonal, share-focused menu that elevates our wine program and delights our guests. This role is ideal for an experienced Head Chef seeking creative freedom or a strong Sous Chef ready to make their mark.

What We Offer:

• A true partnership: A genuine and defined pathway to a Chef-Partner position for the right leader.
• Excellent Compensation & Culture: $80,000 base salary + super. You will also receive an equal share of all tips, which are pooled and distributed across the entire FOH and BOH team for each service. We believe this is fundamental to fostering a culture of unity and shared success.
• Work-life balance: A consistent Tue–Sat roster to start. Closed Christmas, New Year & Easter.
• Creative freedom: Full autonomy over menu creation and kitchen direction.
• Professional growth: Deepen your knowledge with wine education and access to exclusive industry events.
• A great culture: Join a supportive, inclusive, and professional team where you are respected as a leader.

What You Will Lead:

• Menu & Vision: Full creative ownership of menu design, costing, and execution.
• Kitchen Operations: Lead service from our open kitchen, setting impeccable standards for quality and consistency.
• Leadership: Manage all ordering, stock control, food safety, and GP management.
• Guest Experience: Engage confidently and warmly with guests, working closely with FOH to create a seamless dining experience.

What You Bring:

• Experience: Proven success as a Sous Chef, Head Chef, or Senior CDP in a quality-focused restaurant.
• Leadership: A calm, confident, and professional demeanor. You lead by example and thrive in an open, guest-facing kitchen.
• Craft: Exceptional skill across all sections and a passion for clean, consistent, and beautiful food.
• Passion: A genuine interest in wine (or a strong desire to learn) and a collaborative spirit.
• Logistics: Full Australian work rights and availability for a Tuesday-Saturday schedule.

How to Apply This is a key role for our future. To apply, please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining why this opportunity excites you to with the subject: "Head Chef — Knird Wine Bar".