Career Opportunities – Restaurant  Manager and Chef

Christchurch, New Zealand

Churchil Tavern Limited is seeking experienced hospitality professionals to join our team. We currently have vacancies for a Restaurant Manager and a Chef at our licensed hospitality venue in Christchurch.

Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: Minimum 30 hours per week
Pay Rate: $30.00 – $35.00 per hour (depending on qualifications and experience)
Business Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM(Next day), Monday to Sunday


Position 1: Restaurant Manager

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must have either:

  • At least 2 years of relevant management experience in the hospitality industry; OR
  • A New Zealand Register Level 4 qualification (or equivalent) in Hospitality Management, Business, or a related field.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

  • Plan menus in consultation with the Chef, considering customer preferences, seasonal availability, and business requirements.
  • Plan, organise, and coordinate special functions and events held at the venue.
  • Arrange the purchasing of food, beverages, and other operational supplies, and assist in setting prices in line with business budgets.
  • Maintain records of stock levels, purchases, sales, and other financial transactions.
  • Ensure the restaurant and bar comply with food safety, alcohol licensing, health and safety, and hygiene regulations.
  • Monitor the cleanliness, presentation, and overall appearance of the dining and bar areas.
  • Meet with customers to obtain feedback, resolve complaints professionally, and ensure a high standard of customer service.
  • Recruit, train, supervise, and support waiting staff, bar staff, and kitchen staff to maintain efficient operations.
  • Prepare staff rosters, allocate duties, and monitor employee performance.
  • Take reservations, greet customers, and assist with customer service during busy periods when required.
  • Monitor daily operations to ensure efficient service and achievement of business objectives.

Position 2: Chef

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must have either:

  • At least 2 years of relevant experience as a Chef; OR

·       A New Zealand Register Level 4 qualification (or equivalent) in Cookery or a related field.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

  • Plan menus in consultation with the Restaurant Manager, considering customer demand, seasonal produce, and food costs.
  • Estimate food and labour costs and assist with ordering food supplies and kitchen ingredients.
  • Monitor the quality of dishes throughout preparation, cooking, and presentation to ensure consistency and high standards.
  • Discuss food preparation and kitchen operations with the Restaurant Manager and front-of-house staff to ensure efficient service.
  • Demonstrate cooking techniques and provide guidance and support to kitchen staff.
  • Prepare, cook, and present meals in accordance with established recipes and quality standards.
  • Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health and safety regulations at all times.
  • Monitor food storage, stock rotation, and minimise food waste.
  • Assist with selecting, training, and supervising kitchen staff when required.
  • Preserve and store food safely using appropriate freezing and storage methods where necessary.

Employment Conditions

  • Permanent, full-time positions.
  • Guaranteed minimum of 30 hours per week.
  • Hourly pay rate of $30.00–$35.00, depending on qualifications and experience.
  • Work will be rostered between 10:00 AM and 2:00 AM(Next Day), Monday to Sunday, including weekends and public holidays.
  • Positions are based in Christchurch.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Employer Questions

Your application will include the following question(s):

  • Are you a New Zealand Resident/Citizen?