Job Description
Casual
Application Closes 18 Mar 2026
Wellington - Wellington
Chef and Head Cook
Casual Cook - Wellington, Levin, Masterton
Lead our kitchens team responsible for creating mealtimes for our Elders
Bring your understanding of complex dietary and nutritional needs
Make mealtimes so delicious they become the talk of the day!
Mō mātou - About us
When you join Presbyterian Support Central (PSC), you become part of a not-for-profit organisation that has been helping people for more than 115 years.
Everything we do focuses on supporting people during the most vulnerable times of their lives, whether it’s an older person needing care and connection or a family working through tough times. Our name, Enliven, reflects our heritage and shared values, and our homes and villages are places where older people enjoy companionship, choice, variety, fun, meaningful activity, and a sense of purpose.
Being part of our team means embracing a values-based approach and contributing to a not-for-profit service dedicated to supporting elders.
Mō te tūranga - About the role
The Enliven Bureau team provide support to our residential homes at times when they need additional cover for leave, absences, special events or unexpected or high volume of workloads. They are an essential part of the wider Enliven team and ensure that our Homes can run seamlessly at all times and offer continuity of care and support to our Elders.
This role involves the following:
Support the smooth daily operation of our kitchens, including assisting with kitchen team coordination.
Prepare and cook nutritious, high‑quality meals that meet the dietary needs of our elders.
Ensure mealtimes are welcoming and enjoyable, contributing to a positive experience for residents.
Maintain a clean, hygienic, and well‑organised kitchen environment.
Coordinate with the Food Services Team Leader and Kitchen Hands to deliver consistent, high‑standard service.
We have Homes across the Lower North Island, including Wellington, Wairarapa, Levin and Palmerston North and Feilding and this role could be offered hours of work in any of these locations when there is a need for Bureau support.
Mō koe - About You
You will be naturally flexible and easily adapt to different working environments and kitchens quickly. You will understand that mealtimes are an important part of our Elders day and that the role of the Cook is to ensure they enjoy healthy and nutritious meals that cater for their individual needs.
You will have,
Relevant qualifications: City & Guilds 706/1 & 706/2, NZQA 75/1 & 75/2, or a Level 3 Hospitality Certificate.
At least 2 years’ experience in a similar role, ideally within aged care.
Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and maintaining high hygiene standards.
Proven leadership skills in a hospitality environment.
Experience preparing meals for varied dietary requirements, including modified textures.
Flexibility to support special events and celebrations within the Home.
You will be able to navigate your way around the kitchen routines in each home, understand how to limit food waste and plan and prepare meals appropriately, while remaining calm under pressure.
If you are flexible about being able to cover a wide geographical area, including have the ability to occasionally stay in accommodation on site for short periods if required, this would be ideal.
Mō ō tātau painga - About our benefits
Be part of a compassionate organisation that values upskilling, with opportunities to gain nationally recognised qualifications and attend training workshops.
Enjoy regular staff wellbeing activities that support a positive workplace culture.
Benefit from a hospitality role with no anti‑social hours, offering better work–life balance.
Work collaboratively as part of a wider, supportive team with a shared sense of purpose.
Access ongoing training and development opportunities for all staff.
Receive discounted healthcare cover and additional discounts with NZ retailers.
Use our free, confidential Employee Assistance Programme for extra support when needed.
Applications:
Please click the APPLY button to submit your application. If you’d like more information before applying, feel free to contact our Recruitment Team at [email protected].
Note:
We will be shortlisting as applications come in, so the advert may close early— so apply now if you don't want to miss this opportunity!
You must already have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. We do not offer visa support for this position, as hours of work are not guaranteed.
Your cover letter is an important part of our shortlisting process, so tell us about the experience and skills you bring, and refer to the attached Job Description for further detail.
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💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Enliven Bureau - Casual Cook position is now open for candidates interested in the Cook / Chef Jobs sector. This role in Wellington offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Cook / Chef Jobs is a plus.
