S
Head Chef - Research & Development
Saint Peter
Marketing & Communications
Posted 14/03/2026
Closed 28/03/2026
Paddington, 2021, Sydney, New South Wales
Full time
Not specified
Saint Peter are seeking a highly skilled and creative Head Chef - Research & Development to join our culinary leadership team in Sydney.
Saint Peter are seeking a highly skilled and creative Head Chef – Research & Development to join our culinary leadership team in Sydney.
This is a unique opportunity for an experienced chef who is passionate about both operational leadership and culinary innovation. The role combines the responsibilities of a traditional Head Chef with a strong focus on menu development, product innovation, and culinary research.
You will play a key role in shaping the direction of our food offering while maintaining exceptional standards in kitchen operations, team leadership, and quality.
About the Role
Kitchen Leadership
Lead day-to-day kitchen operations ensuring consistency, quality, and efficiency
Preparation of menu items to high quality standards, including setting prep lists for the team to work efficiently.
Manage and mentor the kitchen team, building a positive and high-performing culture
Maintain food safety and hygiene standards in accordance with Australian regulations
Oversee ordering, stock control, and supplier relationships
Monitor food costs, labour costs, and wastage to meet financial targets
Work closely with front-of-house teams to deliver an exceptional guest experience
Research & Development
Develop and test new dishes, menus, and culinary concepts
Conduct research into ingredients, techniques, and emerging food trends
Lead menu development and seasonal menu changes
Document recipes, preparation methods, and plating guidelines for consistency
Work with producers and suppliers to source premium seasonal ingredients
Run tastings and training sessions for new dishes and menu launches
Strategic Contribution
Contribute to long-term menu planning and culinary direction
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, sustainability, and product quality
Support the development of new culinary projects or concepts
About You
Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a quality-focused restaurant environment
Diploma qualification and/or 1 to 3 years of employment experience
Strong experience in menu development and creative cooking
Excellent leadership and team management skills
Strong organisational and planning skills
Solid understanding of food cost control, labour management, and inventory systems
Passion for seasonal produce and continuous culinary improvement
What We Offer
A leadership role with strong creative input
Opportunity to drive menu development and innovation
Supportive and professional working environment
Competitive salary based on experience
Opportunities for growth within a respected hospitality group
Saint Peter are seeking a highly skilled and creative Head Chef – Research & Development to join our culinary leadership team in Sydney.
This is a unique opportunity for an experienced chef who is passionate about both operational leadership and culinary innovation. The role combines the responsibilities of a traditional Head Chef with a strong focus on menu development, product innovation, and culinary research.
You will play a key role in shaping the direction of our food offering while maintaining exceptional standards in kitchen operations, team leadership, and quality.
About the Role
Kitchen Leadership
Lead day-to-day kitchen operations ensuring consistency, quality, and efficiency
Preparation of menu items to high quality standards, including setting prep lists for the team to work efficiently.
Manage and mentor the kitchen team, building a positive and high-performing culture
Maintain food safety and hygiene standards in accordance with Australian regulations
Oversee ordering, stock control, and supplier relationships
Monitor food costs, labour costs, and wastage to meet financial targets
Work closely with front-of-house teams to deliver an exceptional guest experience
Research & Development
Develop and test new dishes, menus, and culinary concepts
Conduct research into ingredients, techniques, and emerging food trends
Lead menu development and seasonal menu changes
Document recipes, preparation methods, and plating guidelines for consistency
Work with producers and suppliers to source premium seasonal ingredients
Run tastings and training sessions for new dishes and menu launches
Strategic Contribution
Contribute to long-term menu planning and culinary direction
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, sustainability, and product quality
Support the development of new culinary projects or concepts
About You
Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a quality-focused restaurant environment
Diploma qualification and/or 1 to 3 years of employment experience
Strong experience in menu development and creative cooking
Excellent leadership and team management skills
Strong organisational and planning skills
Solid understanding of food cost control, labour management, and inventory systems
Passion for seasonal produce and continuous culinary improvement
What We Offer
A leadership role with strong creative input
Opportunity to drive menu development and innovation
Supportive and professional working environment
Competitive salary based on experience
Opportunities for growth within a respected hospitality group
Looking to hire?Post a Job
© 2026 - Philled Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.