Thai Lemon is looking for 2 passionate and experienced Chefs to join our fun and energetic team in Browns Bay and Point Chevalier, Auckland. If you love great food, enjoy a fast-paced kitchen, and want to grow with a vibrant local restaurant, we would love to hear from you.
Position Description
Position: Chef
Employer: Lemon Thai Limited
Employment Type: Full-time - Permanent
Location: Auckland
Report to: Managing Director
Start Date: 1/7/2026
Salary/ Pay rate: $29.66 per hour
Position Purpose
The primary responsibility of the Chef is to plan, prepare, cook, and present high-quality food that meets business standards and customer expectations, while ensuring efficient kitchen operations, food safety compliance, and cost control.
Requirements
· Having at least 2 years of working experience as a Chef in a commercial kitchen environment OR holding a relevant cookery qualification at Level 4 or above.
· Experience or knowledge in Thai Cuisine would be an advantage.
· Strong knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen operations.
· Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and manage kitchen priorities.
· Knowledge of New Zealand food hygiene and health & safety standards.
· Able to work flexibly between Browns Bay and Point Chevalier locations in accordance with roster and operational requirements set by the Managing Director
Key Activities
Menu Planning & Cost Control
· Plan menus in consultation with management, considering customer demand, seasonal availability, and business objectives.
· Estimate food and labour costs to assist with budgeting and profitability targets.
· Order food supplies, ingredients, and kitchen stock as required.
· Monitor stock levels and minimise wastage through effective inventory control.
Food Preparation & Cooking
· Prepare, season, and cook a wide range of dishes in accordance with recipes and business standards.
· Ensure meals are prepared and served promptly during service periods.
· Demonstrate cooking techniques and advise kitchen staff on food preparation procedures.
· Freeze, store, preserve, and rotate food items appropriately to maintain freshness and quality.
Quality Assurance & Presentation
· Monitor quality of dishes at all stages of preparation, cooking, and presentation.
· Ensure consistency in portion sizes, taste, appearance, and presentation of all menu items.
· Maintain high standards of food quality and customer satisfaction.