About Us
At Good Shepherd Lodge, we are committed to providing nutritious, delicious, and comforting meals to our residents, fostering health, well-being, and joy. As a key member of our team, the Head Chef will play a vital role in delivering high-quality dining experiences that align with the nutritional needs and preferences of aged care residents.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food service, menu planning, and kitchen management, particularly within the aged care or healthcare sector.
Key Responsibilities
• Design and deliver a rotating menu that meets the nutritional and dietary needs of residents, including specialized diets (e.g., texture-modified, allergen-free, and culturally appropriate meals).
• Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Manage and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a positive and efficient work environment.
• Maintain inventory and oversee ordering to ensure the kitchen is well-stocked while minimizing waste.
• Collaborate with dietitians, caregivers, and residents to adapt menus to individual needs and preferences.
• Ensure a high standard of presentation and taste in all meals served.
• Manage the kitchen budget effectively.
Qualifications and Skills
• Proven experience as a Head Chef or in a similar leadership role, preferably in aged care, healthcare, or institutional catering.
• Relevant culinary qualifications (e.g., Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery).
• Strong understanding of dietary requirements for aged care residents, including texture modification and allergen management.
• Demonstrated knowledge of food safety standards (e.g., HACCP) and compliance requirements.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and manage a diverse team.
• Organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Compassion and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for aged care residents.
Why Join Us?
• Above Award rates supported by our Enterprise Bargaining Agreement
• 5 weeks annual leave (Permanent staff)
• Fitness Passport
• Social Club
• Sonder - Employee health, wellness and safety partner
• A great team environment
How to Apply
If you are passionate about creating meals that nourish and delight, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role by clicking apply now. If you have any queries, please reach out to us via email at recruitment@gsl.care
Join us in making a difference in the lives of our residents through exceptional dining experiences!
We are the largest aged care provider in the Mackay region, but that is not what we are most proud of.
We are proud that we are able to play a part in enabling you to live the life that you choose. With two locations and several different types of living and support options we are sure to have an option that suits your living or care needs. Our locations differ in personality and that’s what our residents like.
Our Good Shepherd Lodge community is situated in the heart of Mackay and is renowned for providing our residents a tranquil, safe and caring environment, where around every corner there is a tropical garden or outside area, whilst still being within easy reach of everything.
Kerrisdale Gardens our second aged care community, situated north of Pioneer River, is our newest offering. Providing a ‘premier’ lifestyle choice for its residents. It is situated on 8 hectares of landscaped gardens where residents can benefit from evening breezes and sweeping rural views from their balconies, with the harbour and nearby islands in the distance.
Being at the heart of the Mackay community since 1974, we’re passionate about enabling others to live life in an environment that they choose – and one where they feel at home.
We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality care and service and fostering a sense of belonging to enable you to live a healthier, more active and connected life.
We recognise it’s more than just where you live, it’s the lifestyle we provide. That’s what makes us different!
