Executive Chef

Located within the UNESCO-listed Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, Jenolan Caves is one of Australia's most iconic tourism destinations and one of the oldest cave systems in the world. Home to the heritage-listed Caves House, Chisholm's Restaurant and a range of visitor experiences, Jenolan has welcomed generations of visitors to this extraordinary destination.

Following a major flood event in 2024, Jenolan Caves temporarily closed to visitors while significant restoration, infrastructure and conservation works commenced. Today, an ambitious program of upgrades is transforming the precinct, including the refurbishment of Caves House, the construction of a new Blue Lake Boardwalk and improvements across visitor facilities and public spaces.

The reopening of Jenolan Caves is highly anticipated and will play an important role in the economic and social fabric of the Central West and Blue Mountains regions. As Jenolan prepares to welcome visitors again, this is a rare opportunity to help shape the next chapter of one of Australia's most significant tourism destinations.

• Executive Chef (Clerk 7-8)
• Temporary full-time role up to 2 years
• Located at Jenolan Caves, 3 hours from Sydney and 25 minutes from Oberon
• Package includes base salary from $116,981.00 to $129,492.00, plus employer's contribution to superannuation
• Great opportunity to work at a world heritage site at an idyllic location and play a pivotal role in the creation of life changing visitor experiences

We're looking for an exceptional Executive Chef to help shape hospitality at Jenolan Caves as we prepare for reopening and future growth.

As the Executive Chef, you will be accountable for leading and coordinating all culinary operations across Jenolan Caves Hotel & Hospitality, including Chisholm’s Dining, cafe operations, events, conferences, weddings and staff/contractor catering as required.

You will manage resources, systems, menus, food safety, supplier relationships, cost controls and team performance to ensure the delivery of exceptional dining experiences and consistently high food quality throughout the Jenolan Visitor Use and Services Zone.

This role plays a critical part in shaping the culinary direction of Jenolan, supporting operational readiness and maintaining a positive kitchen culture whilst supporting the broader Hotel & Hospitality leadership team. This is an opportunity to build something special and establish the standards that will define the guest experience for years to come.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Demonstrated ability to lead culinary teams and coordinate daily kitchen operations across multiple outlets or service styles.
• Experience in menu development, food cost control, stock management, supplier engagement and kitchen financial performance.
• Demonstrated ability to train, mentor and support chefs, cooks and kitchen team members.
• Experience in food safety, hygiene, WHS and kitchen compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to support functions, conferences, weddings and high-volume service while maintaining quality and presentation standards.
• A practical leadership style with the ability to build a positive kitchen culture during a reopening and operational growth phase.

• Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent trade qualification.
• Food Safety Supervisor certification.
• Current First Aid qualification or willingness to obtain.

Due to the unique operational environment at Jenolan Caves and the Executive Housekeeper playing a critical role in overseeing housekeeping operations across Caves House, Mountain Lodge, guest accommodation, public areas and staff accommodation, the position requires a strong onsite leadership presence to support the day-to-day operation.

Given the remote location and evolving operational environment, this position is well suited to candidates seeking a FIFO-style hospitality leadership opportunity, with onsite accommodation arrangements available if required.

At Jenolan Caves our mission is to connect our visitors with the unique natural and cultural heritage of Jenolan Caves, and through that connection, stimulate the urge to care for and protect all such special places. Put simply, our mission is to Protect and Connect.

Jenolan Caves is a great place to expand your career and grow your skills and knowledge.

• Onsite accommodation arrangements if required.
• Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training.
• Staff discounts on dining and cave tours.

Apply by answering all pre-screening questions, submit a current resume and a one-page cover letter that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.

In our inclusive and accessible workplace, differences are embraced, contributions are valued, and everyone has a sense of connection and belonging. DCCEEW supports various employee affinity groups, practice flexible working, offer job share and workplace adjustments.

For more information about the role contact Aiden Lizotte via aiden.lizotte@dcceew.nsw.gov.au

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next 18 months.

•  Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
•  How we encourage and support people with disability
•  Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Naz Keya via naz.keya@dpie.nsw.gov.au (please mention reference number 554131).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn.  

Find us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), YouTube and LinkedIn.

Advertised: 27 Oct 2026 AUS Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 10 Nov 2026 AUS Eastern Daylight Time

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend