Pizza chef

The Pizza Chef plays a key role in keeping one of the busiest sections of the kitchen running smoothly. This role is responsible for preparing dough and toppings, hand-stretching bases, and cooking pizzas to order with speed, accuracy and consistency. Everything in our pizza section is made in-house, so attention to detail, pride in preparation and a proactive approach to prep and service are essential.

During service, the Pizza Chef is expected to stay calm under pressure, maintain ticket times, and keep the workstation clean and organized. The section usually runs with one pizza chef, but flexibility is important. You may at times need to support the KP station by clearing the clean dish trolley or helping if they’re under pressure. In return, you’ll help train KPs to assist at the pizza pass, including cutting pizzas and adding the right finishing toppings. Teamwork and communication with the wider kitchen and FOH teams are crucial to keeping service flowing.

You’ll be responsible for rotating and labelling stock correctly (FIFO), managing prep levels, setting up and packing down your section, and ensuring all food safety and hygiene standards are followed. Presentation matters at Kai — pizzas should leave the pass looking consistent, hot and exactly to our standard. You’ll be trusted to make sensible calls when things go wrong, whether it’s a broken piece of equipment, low stock, or an unexpected rush.

To thrive in this role, you should have experience in a commercial kitchen and be confident with pizza dough and oven work. You’ll work quickly without losing quality, stay tidy and organized, and bring a positive attitude to each shift. Previous experience leading a section or basic food safety knowledge is an advantage but not essential — a willingness to learn, take initiative and contribute to a good vibe in the kitchen matters most.

What we offer

A fast-paced kitchen with a solid reputation, a supportive and down-to-earth team, staff meals and drink perks on shift, discounts across the venue, and the chance to spend your summer working in the heart of Wānaka — lake views, long evenings and all. There’s also room to grow for those wanting to develop their skills or step into more responsibility.