Chef

Lead from the front. Cook great food. Build something you’re proud of.

The South Eastern Hotel is one of Mount Gambier’s largest and busiest hospitality venues — serving locals and visitors across our family-friendly bistro, functions, gaming, and entertainment spaces. We’re known for delivering quality food, genuine hospitality, and creating memorable experiences every day.

We’re looking for an experienced Chef to join our kitchen team on a full-time salaried basis.

This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys leading by example, and takes pride in consistency, presentation, and delivering food to a high standard.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT

• Enjoy a fun, respectful, and professional team that feels like family

• Secure opportunities for career development, learning, and upskilling

• Become empowered as part of a progressive business looking toward the future

• Be recognised and appreciated for your hard work and integrity

• Full-time salaried role with stability and long-term opportunity, base salary of $76,000 plus package beneifts

• Join a large, established venue with strong support across the business

ABOUT YOU!

You’re someone who brings positive energy into the kitchen, stays calm under pressure, and genuinely enjoys producing quality food and supporting the team around you.

You’ll thrive in this role if you:

• Are trade qualified (highly preferred)

• Have at least 2 years’ experience working as a Chef

• Bring experience working in a fast-paced, high-quality kitchen

• Have strong knowledge across kitchen sections and cooking techniques

• Are passionate about food quality, service, and presentation

• Stay organised and methodical during busy services

• Can work independently while contributing positively to the team

• Have strong communication skills with suppliers, customers, and colleagues

• Understand modern food trends and contemporary cooking approaches

• Take food safety, cleanliness, and allergen management seriously

• Show initiative and maintain high professional standards

ABOUT THE JOB

As our Chef, you’ll play an important role in delivering exceptional food experiences across a large and diverse venue operation.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading and supporting service with a hands-on approach

• Delivering premium, consistent meals to a high standard

• Maintaining quality, portion control, and presentation standards

• Monitoring stock, minimising waste, and supporting cost control

• Observing and implementing allergy awareness procedures

• Maintaining compliance with food safety, WHS, and hygiene standards

• Supporting menu execution and kitchen organisation

• Working collaboratively to create memorable guest experiences

• Contributing to a positive kitchen culture and continuous improvement

This role will require availability on a rotating roster, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required.

THE VENUE

The South Eastern Hotel is a Mount Gambier favourite — offering a large family-friendly bistro, kids’ play area, function spaces, gaming, TAB, Keno, and meals available 7 days for lunch and dinner. With strong local trade and a diverse operation, no two days look the same.

APPLY NOW & NEXT STEPS

Please have your current resume ready to upload and complete all application questions.

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for a phone interview.

Alternatively, feel free to drop into the hotel and introduce yourself to the Manager or Head Chef.

South Eastern Hotel – Mount Gambier, SA 5290