Head Chef
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 12, 2026. First seen by Alion on Aug 12, 2026. Programmedgroup scores B on the Alion truth index.
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
- $130,000 + 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
- First Aid & CPR
- 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.
Apply Now
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.