Head Chef | Collective Café

Collective Café Manager | UCSA | Dovedale Campus, Ilam

Full time, permanent

We’re seeking a skilled Head Chef to lead the kitchen at our busy Collective Café. This is your chance to take charge in a fast-paced, student-focused environment known for fresh, seasonal food and great service.

You’ll manage daily operations, drive creative menu development, and uphold top standards in food safety, quality, and presentation—helping deliver a standout campus café experience.

What you’ll do:

• Lead day-to-day kitchen operations, with a focus on quality and food safety
• Develop seasonal, on-trend menus in collaboration with the wider team
• Manage stock control, ordering, and support regular stocktakes
• Keep up with food trends and bring fresh ideas to the table
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and health & safety

What you’ll bring:

• Level 3 National Certificate in Hospitality (Professional Cookery) or equivalent
• At least 2 years’ experience in a busy commercial kitchen
• Creativity, strong culinary skills, attention to detail and a love for great food
• Excellent communication, organisation, and time management

Why join us?

• Be part of a not-for-profit organisation making a real difference for students
• Daytime hours and a welcoming, campus-based location
• Supportive team environment with space for creativity and input

About UCSA

Nau Mai Ki Te Rōpū Akonga ō Te Whare Wānanga ō Waitaha

Welcome to The University of Canterbury Students’ Association (UCSA)

Established in 1894, the UCSA is a registered not-for-profit organisation that supports UC students to succeed and belong.

Our organisation is governed by an elected Student Executive, and we employ over 300 staff. Together, we dish up a range of student-focused services, including advocacy and welfare, representation, subsidised dental and optometry, early learning centres, club support, events, and media.

The UCSA commercial team manages several cafes and bars, as well as sizeable catering and events teams delivering services to students, staff, external customers and commercial partners.

How to Apply

Please apply through our careers site.

Please note we will be reviewing applications as they are received and we reserve the right to appoint a suitable candidate before the application closing date.