Tandoor Chef

Key Requirements

• Genuine passion for authentic Indian cuisine and a strong understanding of traditional Indian cooking and tandoor techniques.
• Reliable, punctual, and hardworking, with the ability to work independently and take responsibility for kitchen operations.
• Ability to direct, coordinate and provide guidance to other kitchen staff during preparation and service.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure in a busy kitchen environment while maintaining consistency, quality, and presentation standards.
• Flexibility to work rostered shifts, including evenings, weekends and public holidays as required. 

Key Responsibilities

• Preparing, cooking, portioning, plating and presenting food to professional standards, while monitoring the quality, taste, texture and presentation of dishes at all stages of preparation and service.
• Planning menus and developing recipes, including authentic Indian tandoori dishes, curries, breads and other preparations, while applying specialist knowledge of Indian spices, herbs, marinades and garnishing techniques and considering customer preferences.
• Taking complete responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the kitchen, directing and coordinating other kitchen staff, allocating duties, demonstrating cooking techniques, and ensuring food preparation and service are completed efficiently and to the required standard.
• Managing food costs, stock control and inventory, including estimating requirements, ordering and maintaining food supplies, controlling portions, maintaining adequate stock levels and minimising food wastage.
• Discussing food preparation and service issues with Managers and kitchen and waiting staff, operating and monitoring tandoor and other kitchen equipment at appropriate temperatures, and maintaining strict food safety and hygiene standards, including correct food handling, storage, refrigeration and cleanliness of equipment and work areas.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 2 years of relevant proven experience working as a Chef/Tandoor Chef in a commercial kitchen
• Sound knowledge of Indian cooking techniques, tandoor cooking, spices, marinades and food preparation methods.
• Good understanding of food safety, hygiene, storage and temperature-control requirements.
• Experience coordinating or directing other kitchen staff would be advantageous.
• Ability to maintain consistent food quality and kitchen standards during busy service periods.

Additional Details

Weekly Hours: Between 35-45. Guaranteed minimum hours are 35 hours per week.
Pay Rate: $30-$33 per hour
Location: Christchurch
Position: Full-time, Permanent

Applicants should provide a cover letter and a current CV outlining their relevant qualifications (if any) and employment experience.