Job Title: Teppanyaki Chef Apprentice
Reports To: Head Teppanyaki Chef / Sous Chef
Location: [South Yarra, Vic]
Job Overview
We are seeking a motivated and passionate individual to join our team as a Teppanyaki Chef Apprentice. This is a unique opportunity to learn the art of Teppanyaki cuisine from the ground up under the guidance of our experienced chefs. The ideal candidate has a strong desire to build a career in the culinary arts, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to excellence. You will start by mastering the fundamentals of preparation and kitchen operations, progressively learning the culinary skills and performance art that define Teppanyaki.
Key Responsibilities
1. Preparation & Support:
· Perform all mise-en-place duties before service, including washing, peeling, and cutting vegetables, meats, and seafood.
· Prepare basic sauces, seasoning oils, and marinades according to established recipes.
· Portion and store all ingredients correctly, following standard procedures.
· Maintain cleanliness and organization in walk-in coolers and dry storage areas.
2. Kitchen Operations Assistance:
· Ensure the teppan grill station is clean, seasoned, and ready for service before and after each shift.
· Assist chefs by fetching ingredients, tools, and tableware as needed.
· During service, promptly clean used utensils and plates, maintaining a tidy and safe work environment.
· Learn and adhere to all food safety, sanitation, and personal hygiene standards.
3. Skill Development & Learning:
· Begin learning basic Teppanyaki cooking techniques (e.g., fried rice, cooking vegetables) under the close supervision of senior chefs.
· Observe and mimic the knife skills, temperature control, and guest interaction techniques of the master chefs.
· Gradually learn and practice simple performance elements (e.g., seasoning with utensils, flipping eggs).
· Participate in all required internal training sessions and meetings.
Qualifications & Skills
Required:
· A genuine interest and passion for the culinary arts and Teppanyaki.
· A strong willingness to learn, a humble attitude, and the ability to accept constructive feedback.
· Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
· Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and stand for extended periods.
· Detail-oriented and organized.
· Basic understanding of food safety (or a strong willingness to learn).
Preferred:
· Any previous experience in a food service environment (even in a non-Teppanyaki role).
· A current student or graduate of a culinary program is a plus.
Career Path
This position is the first step toward becoming a full Teppanyaki Chef. Successful apprentices will have a clear path for progression to:
· Junior Teppanyaki Chef
· Teppanyaki Chef
What We Offer
· Competitive hourly wage.
· Structured on-the-job training under experienced chefs.
· Insight into the operations of a high-volume, upscale restaurant.
· A clear career progression path.
· Staff meals and uniform provided.