Experienced Chef (Pakistani Cuisine)

We are a home-based catering business located in Auckland, delivering high-quality Pakistani street food and traditional cuisine for events ranging from small office gatherings and tea parties to large weddings, Eid, and Iftar functions.

We are seeking an experienced and skilled Chef with strong knowledge of Pakistani and Arabic cuisines, capable of leading kitchen operations and maintaining culinary authenticity. You will work closely with the business owner to manage and grow catering services across Auckland and also play a key role in establishing a fully functional restaurant business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take charge of menu planning and bulk meal preparation for catering orders including private parties, community functions, and corporate events.

• Lead the preparation and cooking of a wide variety of Pakistani and Arabic dishes, including curries, biryanis, kebabs, nehari, karahi, and traditional breads.

• Develop, refine, and standardise recipes to ensure authenticity, consistency, and high-quality presentation across all offerings.

• Oversee all aspects of kitchen management, including maintaining high hygiene standards, enforcing food safety protocols, and ensuring proper care and maintenance of kitchen equipment.

• Manage inventory, portion control, and food cost, contributing to effective pricing of menu items and catering packages.

• Hiring and training support kitchen staff, where necessary, and supervise them to uphold operational standards.

• Communicate directly with clients to understand their catering needs and provide culturally appropriate and flavourful menu solutions.

• Plan, organise and demonstrate flexibility to work and deliver food on time during peak demand periods such as Christmas, New Year’s, Ramadan, Eid, Wedding seasons and weekend events.

Employment Terms:

• Hourly Pay: $35.00 – $40.00 per hour (depending on experience and skill)

• Hours: Minimum 32 hours per week guaranteed

• Location: Auckland

• Position Type: Full-time, permanent

Essential Requirements:

• A qualification in cookery/ culinary arts and a Minimum of 3 years relevant experience as a Senior Chef in a professional kitchen (restaurant or catering business).

• Demonstrated expertise in authentic regional Pakistani cuisines, including but not limited to Afghani, Balochi, Punjabi, Karachi/Sindhi-style dishes. Experience in Arabic cuisine is a valuable added advantage.

• In-depth knowledge of Pakistani spices, ingredients, traditional preparation methods, and the ability to adapt flavours to suit both local/international palates and traditional Pakistani food lovers.

• Previous experience managing a commercial or catering Pakistani cuisine kitchen will be preferred. 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; must be able to handle client-facing responsibilities with professionalism.

• A self-starter with a genuine passion for cooking, reliable, punctual, and adaptable to business needs.

• Flexible to work extra hours during festival/ wedding seasons, public holidays or on weekends. 

What We Offer:

• A unique opportunity to shape the culinary identity of an emerging Pakistani catering/restaurant brand — bring your creativity and cultural knowledge to build something from the ground up.

• A dynamic and collaborative working environment, with direct support from the business owner who values innovation, authenticity, and teamwork.

• A competitive remuneration package, with hourly rates between $35 and $40, commensurate with skills, experience, and leadership capability.

• A balanced work schedule, with no late-night shifts (except for occasional special events), supporting a healthy work-life balance.

How to Apply:

• Please send your CV and cover letter detailing your experience and qualifications to: artofcookingbysa@gmail.com