Sous Chef
Join our Rolleston kitchen as Sous Chef. Lead by example, craft outstanding catering for events, and grow with a supportive, inclusive team.
About the business
At G&T Catering, our purpose is simple - bringing people together. We're on a mission to craft connections through seamless service and exceptional food, creating places, spaces, and events where people can connect. Our vision is to deliver an effortless experience for our team, our clients, and every guest we serve.
About the role
We're looking for an experienced Sous Chef to support our kitchen team in delivering exceptional food across a wide range of catering events. This is a hands-on role where no two days are the same. From preparing corporate lunches to executing premium plated dinners and large-scale events, you'll play a key role in ensuring every service is delivered to the highest standard.
Working alongside the wider kitchen team, you'll help coordinate daily kitchen operations, maintain quality and consistency, and ensure services run smoothly in a fast-paced catering environment. You'll lead by example, support other team members, and contribute to a positive, organised kitchen culture.
You'll be working an a minimum of 35 hours per week and may be rostered across seven days depending on business needs.
Due to the nature of catering, hours may fluctuate at times, with plenty of notice provided through the roster system. Some early starts, evenings, weekends, and travel to off-site events will be required.
Key responsibilities:
Support the day-to-day operation of the kitchen
Prepare and deliver high-quality food for a diverse range of catering events
Assist with menu preparation, production planning, and event execution
Help coordinate kitchen operations to ensure efficient service
Provide guidance and support to junior kitchen team members
Maintain exceptional food presentation, consistency, and quality standards
Assist with ordering, stock control, and inventory management
Ensure food safety and hygiene standards are consistently met
Work collaboratively with the wider operations team to deliver outstanding customer experiences
Help maintain a clean, organised, and efficient kitchen environment
About you
We're looking for someone who enjoys the variety and pace of catering and takes pride in producing consistently high-quality food. You'll be reliable, organised, and someone who leads by example.
You'll ideally bring:
Previous experience as a Sous Chef (or similar) in a catering or commercial kitchen
Catering experience with the ability to manage multiple events and changing priorities
Excellent organisation and time management skills
The ability to remain calm under pressure and deliver consistently during busy service
Strong communication and teamwork skills
A positive, can-do attitude with a solutions-focused mindset
High standards of food presentation and attention to detail
A sound understanding of food safety and kitchen best practice
Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and varied hours as required
A full driver's licence is advantageous
Why you'll love working with us:
A supportive, collaborative team culture
Epic kitchen banter with awesome people
A welcoming, purpose-led workplace
Variety in your work with exciting local events
Opportunities to learn, grow, and develop your skills
The chance to work across everything from casual catering to premium events
A role where your contribution genuinely makes a difference
Supportive team culture with a focus on connection and quality
Based in Rolleston – avoid the city traffic!
If you're passionate about food, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and love creating memorable experiences through catering, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now with your CV and a short cover letter outlining why you'd be a great fit for the role.
For confidential enquiries, contact Blair from Polished HR on 027 626 5332
- Department
- G&T Catering
About Polished Human Resources
Recruitment isn’t just about filling a role — it’s about making the right people decisions for your business, now and into the future.
At Polished HR, recruitment is led by senior HR expertise, not sales targets or generic processes. Based in Canterbury, we support organisations across New Zealand to attract, select, and appoint people who genuinely fit their role, team, and culture.