Come for the food, stay for the smiles – and be part of something bigger.
Are you passionate about preparing nutritious, delicious meals while making a real difference in young lives? At Guardian Childcare & Education, we’re looking for dedicated Chefs to join our growing teams across the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne.
This is more than just a cooking job – it’s your opportunity to be part of a warm, supportive environment where food is a vital part of the learning journey. You’ll collaborate with passionate educators, create menus that fuel little bodies and minds, and watch children discover the wonders of taste, smell, and texture.
The Opportunity:
As a Chef at Guardian, you will:
- Develop and prepare seasonal, nutritious menus that cater to a variety of dietary, allergy, cultural, and medical needs.
- Collaborate with Educators and Teachers to make food part of the learning journey.
- Build strong relationships with children, families, and centre staff.
- Maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene at all times.
- Play a meaningful role in promoting children’s health and wellbeing through food.
- Enjoy being part of a welcoming, inclusive, and professional team.
As part of Guardian, you’ll:
- Be part of a team where your work is valued and recognised.
- Work in beautiful, well-resourced centres with supportive leadership.
- Access professional development and career growth opportunities.
- Get rewarded with above-award pay, great perks, and a culture of recognition.
- Enjoy the benefits of the 10% government-funded wage increase, plus an additional 5% increase in December.
What You’ll Bring:
- Food Safety Supervisor Certificate
- Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (or working towards)
- Experience in a childcare kitchen or cooking for special dietary needs (preferred)
- Working With Children Check
- A strong understanding of Child Protection responsibilities
Work Arrangements:
- Full-time or part-time roles available (Monday to Friday)
- Daytime shifts only – enjoy work-life balance!
If you’re ready to cook with purpose, inspire young minds through food, and grow your career in a supportive environment, apply now to join our amazing team of Chefs!
Guardian Childcare & Education values diversity in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. Diverse cultures, backgrounds and experiences strengthen our teams and help us grow. We are committed to providing a workplace where every person is valued, respected, and supported to progress.
We are also deeply committed to Reconciliation and creating an environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People feel a strong sense of belonging and connection.
At Guardian Childcare & Education, children’s safety and wellbeing are our top priority. We have zero tolerance for any form of abuse or harm. We rigorously screen all potential team members, requiring a 10-year verifiable resume, 5 years of direct manager references, and other security checks to ensure they meet our high standards.
*for those who have not been in employment that long, these expectations will be adjusted.