About the Role

FreshChoice Whanganui is seeking an experienced Bakery and Deli Chef to prepare fresh bakery products and a variety of ready-to-eat meals, curries, savouries, and hot food items for our bakery and deli departments. This hands-on role requires strong cooking skills, knowledge of food safety and hygiene, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while consistently maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

  • Preparing and cooking a variety of curries, rice dishes, ready meals, hot food items, and other deli products for daily sale.
  • Planning daily food production to ensure fresh products are available throughout trading hours while minimising waste.
  • Preparing ingredients by cutting, marinating, seasoning, and cooking meats, seafood, vegetables, and other food items.
  • Creating and presenting attractive ready-to-eat meals and hot food displays that meet company quality standards.
  • Monitoring food quality, taste, presentation, and portion control.
  • Maintaining high standards of food safety, hygiene, and cleanliness in accordance with the store requirements.
  • Monitoring stock levels, rotating stock, and assisting with ordering ingredients and supplies.
  • Developing and introducing new recipes and seasonal menu items where appropriate.
  • Training and assisting junior kitchen staff when required.
  • Ensuring all equipment is cleaned, maintained, and operated safely.

Bakery Duties include:

  • Preparing, mixing, shaping, proofing, and baking a variety of breads, buns, rolls, and other bakery products.
  • Preparing bakery fillings, toppings, glazes, and other bakery ingredients.
  • Decorating and finishing bakery products to company standards where required.
  • Monitoring baking times and product quality to ensure consistency.
  • Packaging, labelling, and displaying bakery products for retail sale.
  • Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene within the bakery production area.

Skills and Experience

The successful applicant must have:

  • At least two years of relevant experience in food preparation and cooking within a commercial food service environment OR a Level 4 or higher qualification in Cookery, Professional Cookery, Commercial Cookery, Baking, or a closely related field. 
  • Good knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and safe food handling practices.
  • Strong organisational and time management skills.
  • The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality food.

What We Offer

  • Full-time permanent employment.
  • Minimum 30-35 hours per week.
  • Competitive remuneration based on skills and experience.
  • Ongoing training and development opportunities.
  • Supportive team environment.
  • Opportunities for career progression.

Please apply using the application link and attach your current CV. A cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and/or qualification is encouraged.