HEAD CHEF

About the Organisation

The United Protestant Association of NSW Limited (UPA) is a values-driven, not-for-profit care organisation proudly serving communities across New South Wales. Guided by our vision of “our people by our side”, we are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care every day. With a workforce of over 1,400 employees and a turnover exceeding $100M, UPA provides a wide range of services including Residential Aged Care, Home Care Services, and Retirement Villages.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead the hospitality team at Bracken House, Dubbo, a welcoming aged care home. This is a fantastic opportunity to take the lead in a rewarding environment where your culinary skills directly enhance the wellbeing and quality of life of our residents. In this full-time role, you will manage and support a dedicated team of Chefs, Cooks, and Food Services Assistants, ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality meals and a smooth, efficient kitchen operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, cook, and present a wide variety of nutritious and appealing meals
• Deliver meals tailored to residents’ individual dietary, cultural, and lifestyle needs
• Ensure compliance with UPA policies, Food Safety Programs, and Australian Food Standards and legislation
• Maintain accurate documentation supporting compliance and continuous improvement
• Lead, mentor, and support kitchen and food service staff
• Manage stock control, ordering, budgeting, and cost efficiency

What We’re Looking For

• Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (SIT40521) or Commercial Cookery (SIT40516), or equivalent
• Minimum 2 years’ experience as Chef or Cook Manager (aged care or healthcare preferred)
• Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (NSW compliant)
• Strong understanding of HACCP and food safety standards
• Experience in menu planning, dietary requirements, and nutrition for vulnerable people
• Leadership, supervision, and team development experience
• Strong organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently with high attention to detail
• Budgeting and cost control experience

Desirable: Therapeutic, medical, or dementia-specific diets experience; allergen management training

What We Offer

• Competitive remuneration with not-for-profit salary packaging (up to $15,900 + $2,650 tax-free benefits)
• Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program
• Up to $500 retention bonus for permanent appointments
• Supportive and collaborative workplace culture
• Work-life balance with stable weekday hours
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Opportunity to make a real difference in aged care

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Immunisation compliance (COVID-19 and annual influenza)
• National Criminal History Check
• Pre-employment medical assessment
• Appointment subject to satisfactory completion of checks

How to Apply

Click the ‘Apply Now’ button to submit your resume and cover letter. For a confidential discussion or position description, visit www.upa.org.au to learn more.

UPA welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, veterans, refugees, and people living with disability. We are committed to an inclusive recruitment process and can make adjustments to support your application if required.