CFPU Cook - Level 1

Employment Type: Permanent Full Time
Position Classification: CFPU Cook Level 1
Remuneration: $69,413.15 Per Annum + Super + Salary Packaging 
Hours Per Week: 38
Requisition ID: REQ694827
Location: Calvary Mater Newcastle
Closing Date: Sunday 18 October 2026
 

Every meal matters. Make a difference with every plate

Our cooking and catering team plays an important role in supporting the health and wellbeing of patients across Calvary Mater Newcastle and HNELHD Mental Health Centre.

We are passionate about providing nutritious, high-quality meals in a safe, efficient and patient-focused environment. Every meal we prepare contributes to the overall care experience of our patients, and we take pride in maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and service.

About the Role

Reporting to the Catering Manager, you will be responsible for the preparation, cooking and portion control of patient meals, as well as supporting the day-to-day operations of our catering service.

You will work within NSW Health, site and food safety legislative requirements to ensure meals are prepared safely, accurately and to a consistently high standard.

In this role, you will:

• Prepare, cook and portion patient meals in accordance with approved recipes and food safety requirements.
• Respond accurately and effectively to changes in meal requirements to ensure timely and efficient meal services.
• Prepare meals to meet a range of special, modified and therapeutic dietary requirements, while working within prescribed diet orders and guidelines.
• Maintain a strong focus on food safety, hygiene and allergen management at every stage of food preparation.
• Monitor food usage and apply practices that minimise waste during ordering, storage, preparation and processing.
• Ensure bulk food items and ingredients are appropriately prepared and readily available for the next meal service.
• Maintain clean, safe and hygienic kitchen and food preparation areas.
• Contribute to a positive team environment and support the broader catering operation as required.
• Deliver a quality service that contributes to positive patient experiences and satisfaction.

About You

We are looking for someone who takes pride in their work and understands the important role food services play in patient care.

You will bring:

• Excellent time management and attention to detail.
• The ability to consistently follow recipes and food preparation standards.
• An understanding of inventory control and minimising food waste.
• A strong understanding of food safety, hygiene and allergen management.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Flexibility and a willingness to assist with the day-to-day needs of the catering operation.
• A commitment to providing a high-quality, patient-focused service.

Essential Requirements

• Certificate IV in Commerial Cookery 

• Food Safety Supervisors Certificate 

   

This is an opportunity to be part of a team where the work you do has a direct impact on the experience and wellbeing of patients.

Why join Hunter New England Health?

• Be part of one of the largest and most diverse Local Health Districts in NSW
• Influence digital solutions that directly support patient care and clinical outcomes
• Salary packaging options
• Work collaboratively with passionate clinicians and digital health professionals
• Enjoy career development opportunities within NSW Health
• Make a real difference across a large, complex health service
• Fitness Passport for you and your family
  
   

What you'll be doing

Information for Applicants:

Applicants will be assessed against the essential requirements and selection criteria contained within the position description (link below). For assistance addressing selection criteria visit: https://bit.ly/3vL5fq2

Stepping Up Website is a resource designed to help indigenous job applicants apply for positions in NSW Health. For more information, please visit: https://bit.ly/HNEHealthSteppingUp

This is a Category A position. Recommended applicants will be reviewed for compliance with NSW Health policy directive PD2024_015: Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination against Specified Infectious Diseases for Category A positions prior to offer. All new employees must agree to comply with the requirements outlined in the policy. 

Salary Packaging: is beneficial to most Hunter New England Health employees and may increase your take-home pay! Salary package a range of personal expenses including novated motor vehicle leases, relocation expenses, and HECS/HELP debt. Find out more by contacting SalaryPackagingPLUS! via nswhealth@salarypackagingplus.com.au or 1300 40 25 23.

To be eligible for permanent employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or a permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport. Employment of a temporary visa holder may only occur if no suitable local candidate is identified for the position; in this instance, you may only be offered employment in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa. 

We are unable to accommodate visa sponsorship for applicants requiring a visa for this position.   

At Hunter New England Local Health District, we are an inclusive employer dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace.  Our commitment to a workforce that reflects the community we care for is essential for delivering the highest quality healthcare to our community. We encourage people with diverse lived experiences to apply. If you require any accommodations or adjustments to the recruitment process please let us know when you apply or at any stage of the process. We will work with you to meet your needs and create the best possible experience. Please contact hnelhd-diversity@health.nsw.gov.au for confidential support to ensure an equitable, barrier-free application process.

Hunter New England Health employees may be eligible for a range of benefits such as allocated days off (ADO) for full time employees, long service leave, paid maternity leave, and salary packaging options including meal expenses. 

An eligibility list will be created for future permanent full or part time and temporary full or part time vacancies.

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