Cook

About the Role

Pizzaland is seeking three skilled and dependable Cooks to take the lead in kitchen operations across our Otaki and Waterloo stores. Each Cook will be the main person responsible for daily food preparation, in-house sauce creation, and maintaining kitchen standards at their assigned store. While you will have team members assisting you, the overall responsibility for running the kitchen will rest with you.

A major part of the role involves preparing a wide range of personalised, in-house sauces for our specialty pizzas and occasional pasta dishes. We do not use any pre-made sauces, bread, or pizza bases—everything is crafted fresh in-house, including butter chicken, tikka, and customised fusion sauces. Strong experience with spices, flavour balancing, and sauce consistency is essential.

The role also includes overseeing stock ordering, monitoring dish quality, ensuring orders are completed on time, and being available to travel between the Otaki and Waterloo stores when required (approximately 1 hour apart).

Main Responsibilities

• Take full responsibility for daily food preparation and overall cooking operations.
• Prepare a variety of fresh, in-house sauces for pizzas and other dishes.
• Develop and refine Indian-inspired and fusion-style sauces, toppings, and bases.
• Lead and coordinate team members assisting you in the kitchen and oversee kitchen operations.
• Maintain high hygiene, cleanliness, and food safety standards.
• Ensure consistent taste, quality, and presentation of all dishes.
• Monitor workflow to ensure orders are prepared accurately and on schedule.
• Manage stock levels and order ingredients, materials, and supplies.

Skills & Experience Required

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a similar cooking role.
• Strong understanding of customised sauces, gravies, and Indian spice-based blends.
• Ability to independently manage and lead a busy kitchen.
• Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of food hygiene and safe food handling procedures.
• Ability to maintain consistent recipes and flavours.

Other Requirements

• Reliable and punctual.
• Able to work rostered shifts, including weekends if required.
• Willingness to travel between the Otaki and Waterloo stores when required.
• Commitment to quality, efficiency, and smooth day-to-day operations.