Apprentice Chef - TWPZ

We're looking for a keen individual with a passion for food to join our team and complete an apprenticeship to become a trade Qualified Chef. We have a number of diverse kitchens across our site Dubbo Western Plains Zoo where there is plenty to learn, and you will never get bored.

You'll be supported through your apprenticeship by one of the best chef teams in the Central west region!

This role is set up for success; we encourage you to apply if you're ready to start your career surrounded by knowledgeable and willing to teach chefs.

This is an extremely unique role (based at the zoo ) and presents the opportunity for you to work with a well-oiled, passionate hospitality team, soaking up knowledge from our experienced chefs.

You'll complete your apprenticeship working in our Café Wild, Café Waterhole, Savannah function centre and Zoofari Lodge (accommodation) kitchens, supported by Taronga's passionate kitchen leaders.

Some of the best things about this position is that the hours are family friendly, complimentary friends and family passes all year round, and there is no late night work! (a win for someone looking to avoid late hours).

• Undertake and learn all the different aspects of Commercial Cookery that is required as part of the Chef Apprenticeship.
• Undertake to complete appropriate TAFE training and learn all aspects of commercial cookery. Ensure that all necessary TAFE assessments are completed.
• Undertake general duties as required as part of the TAFE curriculum and apply the learnt skills and knowledge in the workplace.
• Work effectively as a member of a high performing team, to assist Taronga in its achievement of strategic outcomes.
• Comply with Taronga's Customer Service Charter and suggest initiatives for further improvement to ensure industry leading standards are maintained.
• Comply with and suggest sustainability practices in the workplace to help achieve Taronga's sustainability targets and reduce environmental impact.
• Comply with and report any Work, Health and Safety incidents in line with Taronga's Work, Health and Safety Charter.

We are looking for candidates that:

• Must be eligible to enroll in the relevant TAFE trade course
• Obtain and maintain a paid Working with Children Check at own expense.

Our employees enjoy generous employment conditions including some of the following:

• Flexible Hybrid work model - Taronga supports a blend of in-office, remote, and on-the-go workers.
• Complimentary family and friends passes across both Taronga's Sydney & Dubbo Zoo's.
• Free onsite car parking, outside of peak periods.
• A wide range of discounts on our award winning accommodation across both sites.
• Discounted food and beverage purchases across the sites.
• Discounted Fitness Passport.
• We're a social team - there's always lots going on around the zoo that we get involved with!
• + more!

Taronga is an equal opportunity employer, where we recognise the diversity of our workforce and community - be it on the basis of gender, age, culture, religion, language or personal circumstances.

Taronga is also committed to building on the perspectives, experience, knowledge and skills that this diversity brings to our organization.

Please submit your resume and a cover letter of one page. You are also required to complete the two target questions as part of your application.

• Please outline your experience in the hospitality industry.
• What does customer service mean to you?

Applications Close: 11:59pm Sunday 7 December 2025