25/02/2026
Want a Chef Job That Still Lets You Have a Life?
Not the kind where you burn out.
Not the kind where every night is the same plate, same bench, same grind.
And not the kind where “flexible” is just a word on a roster.
At The Jackson Ranch by Bannisters Ranch, we’re building a kitchen that delivers high-end food and leaves room for a life outside the pass.
If you’re a chef who cares about quality, wants to keep learning, and doesn’t want to hate cooking five years from now… keep reading.
Chef (Non-Management)
2IC to Head Chef | Fine Dining & Events | South Coast NSW
This is a hands-on, non-management chef role, working closely as 2IC to the Head Chef across weddings, private events, and curated menus at one of the South Coast’s most respected venues.
We’re not looking for ego.
We’re not looking for someone chasing a title.
We’re looking for a solid, grounded chef who wants to do good food properly in a place that values both standards and sustainability (of humans, not just produce).
Why Jackson Ranch?
There are a lot of kitchens hiring right now. Here’s why this one stands out.
Benefits beyond a competitive salary:
A beautiful, calm venue manicured grounds, open space, fresh air
High-end clientele and national recognition (including Vogue Magazine)
Strong booking pipeline weddings and private events locked in through 2027, so you know what your year looks like
Real flexibility outside of event “game days” time for the people and things you love - Mentally engaging work large-scale cooking that keeps you sharp and switched on - Evolving menus not the same dish every night
Respectful kitchen culture that is calm, organised, no chaos for the sake of it
This is a place where chefs can:
Surf, golf, enjoy the outdoors and live their life
Then show up and cook at a genuinely high level
Without sacrificing everything else
The Role (What You’ll Actually Be Doing)
Non-management chef position
Casual → permanent part-time or full-time (right fit dependent)
3-month probation
Working closely with the Head Chef as second in charge
Cooking for weddings, events, and private groups (often 100+ pax)
Prep, ex*****on, plating, and service … start to finish
You’ll be involved in:
Bulk cooking done well (timing + quality matter)
Learning systems, recipes, and standards
Techniques like brining, ageing, sauces, and prep for scale
Maintaining consistency across large numbers
Helping where needed there is no job too small, no ego attached
Who This Is For
You don’t need to be a rockstar. You do need to be reliable, capable, and open to learning.
This role suits someone who:
Is calm, positive, and coachable
Wants to refine their craft in a high-end environment
Enjoys structure and consistency
Can see what needs doing without being micromanaged
Is happy working as part of a tight, respectful team
You should have solid foundations in:
Heat control and temperature awareness
Knife skills and prep
Rational ovens and standard kitchen equipment
Simple baking, general butchery, bulk prep
Tasting, seasoning, and adjusting as you go
The Food
Crowd-pleasing food, executed at a 5-star level
Strong classics done properly
Elevated with good technique (glazing, caramelising, house-made sauces)
Designed for large groups
Thoughtful with dietaries (without overcomplicating)
Smart prep, efficient plating, everything landing hot together
It’s not about being flashy. It’s about doing things well, consistently, and at scale.
This Role Is NOT For You If…
You require visa sponsorship (full Australian work rights required)
You’re looking for a management title
You only want to cook the same menu every night
You resist systems, structure, or feedback
You bring ego, negativity, or bad habits into a kitchen
You don’t believe in cleaning as you go and pitching in
What You Get in Return
A strong Head Chef to learn from
Real responsibility without unnecessary pressure
A venue that genuinely values food and people
Lifestyle flexibility most kitchens can’t offer
Shared tips across the team
The chance to grow with a venue that’s going places
How to Apply
Email: - Your CV - A short intro (who you are, where you’re at, and why this role interests you) to [email protected].
