SOUS CHEF| THE OBSERVATORY | DARLING GROUP – SOUTH YARRA

SOUS CHEF | THE OBSERVATORY | DARLING GROUP – SOUTH YARRA

Be part of Darling Group's newest venue.

Darling Group is behind some of Australia's most loved hospitality brands — Top Paddock, Token, Cheri, Higher Ground, Darling Cafe, The Kettle Black, Dundas & Faussett, Bambu, Stringers Sorrento and The Terrace at Royal Botanic Gardens. We build world-class venues around service, design, innovation and experience — and we're not slowing down.

Now we're looking for a Sous Chef to join The Observatory, our newest venue, and help take it into its next chapter.

About the role

This is your chance to join a state-of-the-art kitchen and put your stamp on a venue that's already hitting its stride. Working alongside our Head Chef, you'll lead the back of house team, drive menu development, and take real ownership of kitchen operations — from the pass to the P&L. The Observatory runs primarily breakfast and lunch, with occasional evenings for events, so you'll get to make a real impact without sacrificing your nights.

What you'll bring

• 2+ years' experience as a Sous Chef in a high-quality kitchen, with a feel for Australian/European cuisine

• A strong handle on brunch, events and all-day dining service

• A creative, hands-on approach to menu development and plating — equal parts technique and instinct

• Proven leadership: you know how to train, motivate and get the best from a brigade of 8+

• Confidence across budgets, food and labour costs, and stock control

• A trade certificate or equivalent experience, and solid food safety knowledge

• The energy and adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment

• Flexibility for shift work including weekends and public holidays

Why join us

• Join a proven venue — step into an established, thriving kitchen with room to make it your own

• Genuine work-life balance — most evenings off, with a day-shift-focused roster

• A kitchen built to perform — state-of-the-art equipment and space

• Room to grow — real career progression across an expanding, 11-venue group

• Competitive salary, based on experience and qualifications

Ready to join The Observatory?

If you're a passionate Sous Chef with a love for energetic, fast-paced venues and the drive to make your mark, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now.