Sous Chef | Dark Sky Project

Type: Full-time, Permanent

Location: Tekapo

Description

Cook Under the Stars at Takapō!

Mackenzie District

Permanent – Full-time

Imagine finishing a busy service, stepping outside, and looking up into one of the clearest night skies on Earth. At Dark Sky Project in Takapō, your kitchen isn’t just a workspace — it’s part of a unique experience that connects people to place, culture, and the stars above.

We’re on the lookout for a Sous Chef who brings creativity, calm confidence, and a passion for quality kai. If you want a role that offers more than the usual kitchen hustle, this is your opportunity to work somewhere truly extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Role

This isn’t just another cheffing job.

As Sous Chef, you’ll support our Head Chef in delivering beautifully executed dishes and smooth, efficient service. You’ll help lead the team, set the tone in the kitchen, and create an environment where high standards and teamwork thrive.

You’ll be part of an organisation grounded in Ngāi Tahu values, surrounded by a supportive team, and backed by a workplace that genuinely cares.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting the Head Chef with daily kitchen operations
• Leading service periods to ensure smooth, consistent delivery
• Helping train, guide, and support the kitchen team
• Maintaining high standards in food safety and health and safety
• Assisting with stock control, ordering, and basic admin
• Jumping in with the Food & Beverage team when needed
• Creating a positive, culturally confident, and collaborative workplace

Who You Are

You’re steady under pressure, passionate about quality food, and motivated by working in a close-knit team. You bring at least three years’ experience in a professional kitchen and ideally a cookery qualification. You communicate well, stay cool in the heat of service, and take pride in your craft.

You’re also open to learning about Ngāi Tahu values, tikanga, and te reo Māori — and we’ll support your growth.

Why Dark Sky Project?

Working here means being part of something bigger. You’ll help deliver experiences that celebrate culture, the night sky, and the natural beauty of Takapō. You’ll be contributing to a purpose-driven organisation with a long-term vision for people and future generations.

It’s a role where your mahi truly matters.

Pre****‑****Employment Requirements

All applicants must complete:

• Drug and alcohol testing
• Right to work checks
• Other standard pre‑employment screening

Ready to Cook Somewhere Extraordinary?

If you want to take your cheffing career to a place where the night sky is as impressive as the menu, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and join us beneath the stars.