Chefs

About Bar Nova:

Bar Nova is a new bar and restaurant in Canberra built around one idea: Intentionally curated hospitality.
It’s a sincere, hyper curated space designed for people to feel looked after, welcomed, and like they belong through food, drink, music, and the way we run the room.

We’re building a small, high-quality team who believe that collaboration beats ego, and that looking after each other is how you look after guests.

The role:

We’re looking for experienced chefs to help build Bar Nova’s kitchen from the ground up.
You’ll work closely with the owner and Head Chef to design and deliver a menu that’s cohesive, seasonal and executable by a tight brigade.

This role is hands-on and service-focused: you’ll be on the line, contributing ideas, and taking responsibility for consistency, prep, and cleanliness with no exceptions.

What we care about (non‑negotiables)

• You’re a team player first, chef second, you want to work with people, not over them.

• You leave your ego at the door: you can bring confidence and ideas without needing to “win the room.”

• You communicate clearly under pressure and take feedback without flaring up.

• You care about guests even if you never see them and you understand every plate carries your name and the venue’s name.

• You’re punctual, reliable, and take pride in being prepared and organized.

Experience is essential: this isn’t a training role.
We need people who have worked in busy kitchens, understand food safety and systems, and can slot into a small team without hand‑holding.

What you’ll be doing

• Working service on a tight line, executing a concise menu to a consistent standard.

• Collaborating on menu development, specials, and seasonal changes.

• Maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient workspace, with strong prep habits and low wastage.

• Contributing to an ego‑free, collaborative kitchen culture – backing your teammates and supporting FOH to deliver a coherent guest experience.

• Upholding ACT food safety standards and all venue procedures.

What we offer

• A collaborative, ego‑free environment with clear expectations and support.

• A chance to help shape an opening venue from day one, not just “slot into” someone else’s system.

• Fair pay for fair work, with transparent expectations around rosters and workload.

• A leadership team that is hands-on, present on the floor, and committed to honest, two-way feedback.

For core team members, there will be structured, longer-term opportunities to grow with the business as it matures.

SEND RESUMES AND COVER LETTERS TO:

••••@gmail.com