Head Chef

Head Chef | FIFO 8:6 | $135K + Super | Pilbara 

Lead a high-performing kitchen. Deliver quality at scale. Build a team you’re proud of.

If you’re an experienced Head Chef who takes pride in quality, consistency and leading from the front, this is an opportunity to step into a well-run site where your standards and leadership will genuinely make an impact.

At Programmed, you’re not just filling a role, you’re joining a business that invests in its people, values strong leadership, and supports long-term careers.

The Opportunity

This is a permanent FIFO role (8:6 roster) based at Pilgangoora Operations in the Pilbara.

As Head Chef, you’ll lead the delivery of a high-quality food service in a busy village environment balancing bulk catering with cook-to-order service and themed offerings, ensuring residents consistently receive meals that are well-executed, varied and enjoyable.

This is a hands-on leadership role. You’ll be visible in the kitchen, setting standards, coaching your team and driving a culture where quality matters.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading daily kitchen operations in a high-volume environment
• Delivering consistent, high-quality meals across buffet and cook-to-order services
• Designing and evolving menus in collaboration with the central catering team
• Driving food presentation, variety and overall dining experience
• Managing stock, ordering, food costs and budgets
• Maintaining strict compliance with HACCP and food safety standards
• Coaching, mentoring and supporting your team to perform at their best
• Creating a positive, team-first culture that reflects well across the village

What’s On Offer

• $135,000 + Super
• 8:6 FIFO roster (Perth only) offering a+ strong work/life balance
• Long-term, stable role within a well-established contract
• Direct charter flights, accommodation, meals and uniforms provided
• Corporate discounts and employee benefits program
• Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

This is an established site giving you the structure and support to focus on what matters: leading your team and delivering quality food, consistently.

About You

You’re an established Head Chef who is confident running a high-volume kitchen without compromising on standards.

You’ll bring:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef in a mass catering or village environment
• A strong focus on food quality, presentation and consistency
• The ability to lead from the front in a hands-on capacity
• Solid commercial acumen across cost control, stock and forecasting
• A genuine passion for developing and supporting your team
• Strong understanding of food safety and HACCP compliance

Requirements:

• Certificate III/IV in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent)
• Food Safety Supervisor certification
• Australian working rights
• C Class Driver’s Licence
• Ability to pass pre-employment medical and National Police Check

Why Programmed?

We’ve been supporting essential industries across Australia for over 60 years—creating environments where people can live and work safely and comfortably.

We’re proud of the culture we’ve built—one that prioritises:

• Safety and wellbeing
• Respect and inclusion
• Strong leadership and teamwork
• Long-term career stability

Many of our leaders have progressed internally, and while this role is suited to an experienced Head Chef, there is a clear pathway for those who continue to perform and contribute.

If you’re ready to take ownership of a high-performing kitchen and deliver food you can stand behind then we’d like to hear from you.

Apply now and take the next step in your FIFO leadership career.

Our Commitment