Head Chef - Sandringham Grove Care Community

"At Opal HealthCare, we know that companies don't succeed, people do."Our purpose is to bring joy to those we care for and our values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence reflect that C.A.R.E is at the heart of everything we do. Opal HealthCare is one of Australia's leading private aged care providers, with over 149 Care Communities, caring for more than 14,000 residents and supporting over 23,000 team members nationwide.
Permanent | Full-time | Monday to Friday | 9am - 5pm
About the Role
We're looking for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead our hospitality team and create exceptional dining experiences for our residents. You'll play a key role in delivering nutritious, high-quality meals while leading kitchen operations, mentoring team members, and bringing our food philosophy to life every day.
Why Sandringham Grove?
Located in a peaceful pocket of Melbourne’s bayside south-east, just minutes from Westfield Southland, public transport, and local amenities, Sandringham Grove Care Community offers a welcoming workplace designed around connection, comfort, and community. Featuring small household-style neighbourhoods, beautifully landscaped gardens and terraces, an on-site café, library, hair and beauty salon, Men’s Shed, sensory room, and dedicated memory care neighbourhood, the home provides a supportive and engaging environment for residents and team members alike. Join a caring and collaborative team committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care, where meaningful relationships, professional growth, and making a genuine difference every day are at the heart of what we do.
What You'll Do

Lead and inspire the catering team to deliver exceptional dining experiences
Plan and prepare nutritious, high-quality meals that meet resident preferences and dietary requirements
Create seasonal menus and contribute to engaging food experiences for residents
Coach and develop kitchen team members through mentoring and on-the-job training
Ensure compliance with food safety, infection control, and workplace safety requirements
Manage ordering, stock control, and catering budgets to minimise waste and maximise value
Build positive relationships with residents and families to understand their dining preferences
Drive continuous improvement across hospitality services and resident satisfaction

Benefits & Rewards

Permanent full-time opportunity
Competitive salary package plus 12% superannuation
Visa Sponsorship available and relocation assistance
Paid parental leave and flexible public holiday options
Ongoing learning and development through the Opal HealthCare Academy
Scholarships of up to $15,000 for further study
State and national career progression opportunities
Team Member discounts, wellbeing programs and recognition initiatives
$5,000 referral bonus for eligible referrals
Industry-leading systems, technology and innovation
Supportive leadership team and rewarding career pathways

What You'll Bring

Certificate IV in Commercial Cooking, trade qualification, or equivalent
Food Safety Supervisor certification
Previous experience leading kitchen or hospitality teams
Passion for delivering outstanding food and customer experiences
Strong leadership, coaching, and people management skills
Sound understanding of food safety, WHS, and kitchen compliance requirements
Excellent organisational, communication, and time management skills
Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Willingness to complete:

Pre-employment medical
Police Check
NDIS Worker Screening Check

Make a Meaningful Move
Join a team that values your expertise, supports your growth, and empowers you to create memorable dining experiences for residents every day.
Apply now to take the next step in your culinary leadership career with Opal HealthCare.