Cook at Product of Italy Box Hill

About Us

Product of Italy – Box Hill is a well-loved Italian restaurant known for its authentic recipes, fresh ingredients and warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Serving wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta and classic Italian favourites, the restaurant has established a strong local following.

We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Cook to join our kitchen team and contribute to the continued preparation and delivery of high-quality Italian cuisine.

About the Role

Product of Italy – Box Hill is seeking an experienced Cook to assist with the preparation and cooking of a variety of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes.

The successful applicant will be responsible for preparing ingredients, cooking menu items in accordance with established recipes, maintaining food quality and presentation standards, and ensuring that meals are prepared and served efficiently during busy service periods.

The role requires strong practical cooking skills, knowledge of food safety and hygiene requirements, and the ability to work effectively as part of a kitchen team in a fast-paced restaurant environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Preparing and cooking a variety of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes, including pasta, risotto, antipasti, sauces, meat and seafood dishes, in accordance with established recipes and menu specifications.
• Preparing ingredients required for daily kitchen operations, including washing, peeling, cutting and portioning vegetables, meats, seafood and other food products.
• Preparing sauces, stocks, dressings and other components used in the preparation of menu items.
• Cooking food using various methods, including grilling, frying, roasting, baking, boiling and sautéing, while following established preparation and cooking procedures.
• Preparing and assembling dishes during lunch, dinner and peak service periods to ensure orders are completed accurately and within required timeframes.
• Monitoring food during preparation and cooking to ensure appropriate flavour, texture, temperature, portion size and presentation.
• Following recipes and portion-control guidelines to maintain consistency and minimise food wastage.
• Assisting with the preparation of daily specials and seasonal menu items as directed by the Head Chef or kitchen management.
• Checking the quality and freshness of ingredients before use and reporting any concerns regarding food quality or stock availability.
• Assisting with receiving, checking and storing deliveries of fresh produce, meat, seafood, dairy products and other kitchen supplies.
• Monitoring stock levels, rotating ingredients and ensuring food is stored appropriately to maintain freshness and minimise spoilage.
• Ensuring the correct handling, preparation, storage and labelling of food in accordance with food safety and hygiene requirements.
• Maintaining cleanliness and organisation of kitchen workstations, cooking equipment, utensils, preparation areas and food-storage facilities.
• Following workplace health and safety procedures and ensuring kitchen equipment is used safely and appropriately.
• Working collaboratively with the Head Chef, other cooks and kitchen staff to ensure smooth kitchen operations and timely food service.
• Assisting with the preparation of food for functions, group bookings and other restaurant service requirements where necessary.

Skills and Qualifications

The successful applicant should possess:

Relevant qualifications in commercial cookery or hospitality, or equivalent practical experience.

• At least three years of relevant work experience.
• Practical knowledge of food preparation techniques and various cooking methods.
• Experience preparing Italian cuisine or a range of restaurant dishes.
• Understanding of food safety, hygiene and safe food-handling practices.
• Ability to work efficiently during busy service periods while maintaining consistent food quality.
• Good organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to follow recipes, instructions and established kitchen procedures.
• A positive and professional attitude, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work weekdays, weekends and evenings as required.

Australian citizens and permanent residents are encouraged to apply.

Salary: $79,000 - $80,000 plus superannuation