Chef Needed at Lighthouse Restaurant – Australia 2025

This full-time opportunity is more than just a job – it’s a career move into one of the most scenic culinary landscapes in Australia. Offering a competitive annual salary of $65,000 to $75,000, this role is designed for a committed individual who’s ready to take the next step in their culinary journey. Whether you’re a local resident looking for a fresh start or an international candidate with dreams of relocating to Australia, this opportunity comes complete with visa sponsorship for the right applicant. It’s ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments, loves working with fresh ingredients and is dedicated to culinary excellence.

What sets this job apart is not just the stunning location or competitive pay, but the team culture and growth potential. The restaurant prides itself on having a close-knit team led by a highly skilled and inspirational Head Chef, who is committed to mentoring, guiding and uplifting the entire kitchen staff.

From menu development to hands-on training, you’ll be surrounded by a team that believes in pushing boundaries, sharing knowledge and delivering consistent quality with every dish. This is your chance to work in a kitchen that values both tradition and innovation.

The ideal candidate for this role is someone with solid commercial kitchen experience, preferably in high-volume environments, who understands the rhythm and hustle of a busy service shift. You should be fully qualified, dependable and passionate about using fresh, local produce to create meals that tell a story. Availability for weekday and weekend shifts, including evenings, is essential, as is having reliable transportation to and from the venue.

Above all, cultural fit is crucial – you should be someone who takes pride in your work, enjoys collaborating with others and is genuinely invested in the customer experience.

In an era where many kitchens are struggling to retain talent, this restaurant stands out by creating an environment that people want to be part of for the long haul. It’s not just about plating great food – it’s about being part of a supportive culinary family that values growth, teamwork and high standards. If you’re serious about building a meaningful career in hospitality, this opportunity checks all the boxes: location, leadership, learning, lifestyle and longevity.

So, if you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, sharpen your knives and cook with passion, keep reading – this role might just be your perfect match.

Pay Range

$65,000 – $75,000 Annually

If you’re a passionate culinary professional looking for a rewarding full-time opportunity in Australia with competitive compensation, this is a perfect fit. The salary range for this exciting position falls between $65,000 and $75,000 per year, depending on experience and suitability.

This is a permanent, full-time role that includes visa sponsorship for eligible applicants, making it ideal for international chefs or cooks seeking job opportunities in Australia.

Job Type

Full-Time, Permanent

This is a full-time position, meaning the successful applicant will be fully immersed in a dynamic kitchen environment. Long-term commitment is encouraged and supported, offering career stability and development in a renowned and established hospitality setting.

Shift and Schedule

Availability Required:

• Monday to Friday

• Weekends

Flexibility is key for this role. The nature of the restaurant industry requires a professional who can comfortably work weekdays and weekends. Candidates must be willing to work shifts across a seven-day roster, which may include evenings and weekends. Reliable transportation is essential.

Work Location

Cleveland, QLD 4163 – Onsite

The position is based in Cleveland Point, Queensland 4163, a breathtaking coastal suburb located on the Moreton Bay shoreline, just outside of Brisbane. The stunning environment offers panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands – making it not just a workplace, but a lifestyle destination.

Benefits and Perks

As listed directly from the job description, this role comes with several attractive benefits:

• Visa Sponsorship (for eligible international applicants)

• Competitive Pay between $65,000 – $75,000

• Career Growth Opportunities

• Continuous Learning from a Renowned Head Chef

• Collaborative and Experienced Kitchen Team

• Long-Term Career Pathways

• Incredible Bayfront Location

• Supportive, Professional Environment

Are you on the hunt for your next exciting culinary challenge? Do you want to join a professional and passionate team in a breathtaking coastal setting? If you answered yes, then keep reading – this opportunity might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

We are recruiting for a full-time chef or cook to join a busy and well-established award-winning restaurant that has earned a solid reputation for delivering simple yet high-quality dishes using fresh, local ingredients.

This isn’t just any kitchen job – it’s a chance to become part of a culinary legacy.

About the Employer – The Venue

This unique culinary destination is nestled right on Cleveland Point, overlooking the tranquil Moreton Bay. With a 250-seat capacity, the venue is considered one of the leading entertainment and dining locations in the area.

From intimate dining to large events, the restaurant delivers unforgettable experiences backed by exceptional food and service. Our menu highlights local produce and celebrates simplicity, flavour and authenticity.

The restaurant continues to win accolades and recognition for its commitment to fresh, regional cuisine and relaxed, friendly dining.

Ideal Candidate – Who We Are Looking For

This role requires more than just technical skills – it requires passion, professionalism and dedication. The perfect candidate is someone who genuinely loves what they do and thrives in a fast-paced team environment.

Fully Qualified

You must be a fully certified culinary professional, with relevant training and credentials in commercial cookery.

Experience in Commercial Kitchens

We’re looking for someone who has worked in high-volume, fast-paced kitchens. You should be able to handle pressure with grace and maintain quality under all circumstances.

Passion for Fresh Produce

You must have a genuine passion for cooking with fresh, local ingredients. Our food philosophy is built around sourcing and showcasing the best Queensland produce.

Reliable Transport

Because of the location and shifts, reliable transportation is essential. The successful candidate will need to ensure punctuality and availability, including weekends.

Weekend and Night Shift Availability

Hospitality doesn’t sleep and neither do we. The role involves working weekends and evening shifts. Flexibility is vital.

Team-Oriented & Culture Fit

Culture is everything. We’re looking for someone who fits seamlessly into our team, is motivated by customer satisfaction and is ready to commit long-term. We value positive energy, strong communication and a desire to go above and beyond.

About The Role – What You’ll Be Doing

As a full-time member of our kitchen brigade, you’ll be expected to:

• Prepare and present high-quality dishes

• Work collaboratively with kitchen staff to maintain service standards

• Manage kitchen stations effectively and ensure cleanliness

• Assist in daily preparation and inventory

• Uphold hygiene and food safety standards at all times

• Support the Head Chef in delivering consistency in every plate

• Contribute ideas for menu development and improvement

You’ll be part of a kitchen where quality, speed and customer satisfaction go hand-in-hand.

The role is based at The Lighthouse Restaurant Cleveland, a coastal venue located right on the edge of Moreton Bay.

From seafood platters to seasonal specials, the menu reflects the region’s best produce. The restaurant is known not only for its menu but also for the ambience, ocean views and top-tier customer service.

This is your opportunity to join an iconic restaurant in Queensland that values its team as much as it values its customers.

Why Work With Us?

We’re not just offering a job – we’re offering a culinary career in one of the most beautiful bayside settings in Queensland. If you love the idea of creating dishes people remember, working in a team that feels like family and developing your culinary journey, then we want to hear from you.

See What We’re All About

Before applying, feel free to check out our social media platforms to get a sense of our food, vibe and community.

• Instagram: @thelighthousecleveland

• Facebook: The Lighthouse Cleveland

Get a feel for the food, the fun and the energy that powers this kitchen. You’ll quickly see why our team is proud to work here – and why our guests keep coming back.

How to Apply

We’re looking to hire ASAP and we encourage all passionate, experienced and motivated candidates – both local and international – to apply immediately.

If this sounds like the opportunity you’ve been waiting for, simply click Apply Now and submit your resume. Make sure your application highlights:

• Your qualifications

• Your relevant kitchen experience

• Availability

• Your visa status (if applicable)

Our team will be in touch with successful applicants for interviews and trial sessions.