Kitchen Hand – Hot Food Section

Position Overview:

The Kitchen Hand supports the operations of the Hot Food Section by assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen hygiene, and contributing to customer service standards. This role plays a vital part in ensuring food is delivered in a safe, timely, and consistent manner.

You will work in a dynamic, community-oriented retail environment and be part of a team that reflects LAE’s mission to empower the local Arrernte community through food, employment, and benevolent service. This position is ideal for someone who is dependable, eager to learn, and passionate about contributing to high-quality service and culturally respectful operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Food Preparation & Service Support:

- Assist in the preparation, packaging, and presentation of hot food products

- Follow standardised recipes and guidelines under Cook or Supervisor direction

- Support accurate order fulfilment and timely service during busy periods

Kitchen Maintenance & Hygiene:

- Clean and sanitise all kitchen areas, food prep surfaces, utensils, and equipment

- Ensure food is handled and stored in line with food safety and hygiene standards

- Assist with waste disposal and routine kitchen cleaning tasks

Stock Support & Organisation:

- Rotate stock and manage back-of-house inventory levels

- Maintain organised storage of ingredients, packaging, and kitchen materials

- Notify the team of low stock levels or supply shortages

Customer and Team Interaction:

- Support takeaway service by greeting and assisting customers when required

- Handle customer enquiries with professionalism and refer complex issues as needed

- Contribute to a friendly, collaborative team culture that upholds LAE’s values

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

- Cleanliness and hygiene standards consistently maintained

- Accuracy and timeliness in supporting food preparation and service

- Positive feedback from team members and customers

- Adherence to WHS and food safety requirements

- Responsiveness to task delegation and workflow needs

Qualifications and Experience:

Essential:

- Willingness to work as part of a fast-paced kitchen team

- Reliable, punctual, and capable of handling physical tasks

- Basic understanding of food hygiene and safe kitchen practices

- Ability to follow instructions and contribute to team goals

- Availability to work flexible hours including weekends and early starts

Desirable:

- Previous experience in a food preparation, kitchen, or takeaway setting

- Food Handling Certificate (or willingness to obtain)

- Cultural awareness and the ability to work respectfully in a diverse environment

Position Conditions (DAMA-Aligned):

- This is a full-time, permanent position (minimum 38 hours/week)

- The role is ongoing and not seasonal

- Responsibilities align with ANZSCO Code 851311 – Kitchenhand

- The position is based in Alice Springs, NT and eligible for sponsorship under DAMA if required

Strategic Alignment:

This position directly supports LAE’s Strategic and Benevolent Plan by:

- Enhancing food delivery operations that support community wellbeing (Goal 3.3)

- Enabling workforce participation and training for Indigenous team members (Goal 4.2)

- Demonstrating values of respect, teamwork, and service in daily operations

- Contributing to a clean, safe, and efficient workplace aligned with community standards

What We Offer:

- Competitive full-time salary with superannuation

- A community-driven, culturally inclusive working environment

- Opportunities to develop skills in kitchen operations and retail food service

- The chance to be part of a values-led business supporting local impact

How to Apply:

If you’re ready to contribute to a dedicated team focused on food, community, and culture, we want to hear from you.