Tandoor Chef

Vani's Kitchen is seeking a skilled Tandoor Chef to join our kitchen team. You'll work alongside our head chef to deliver authentic Hyderabadi cuisine to a fine dining standard. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with Indian cooking techniques, a passion for quality, and the ability to thrive in a high-volume kitchen. Experience with biryani and South Indian cuisine highly regarded.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook authentic Indian tandoori dishes to consistently high quality standards.
• Specialise in operating and managing the tandoor, including the preparation of naan breads, kebabs, tikka, and other clay oven specialties.
• Marinate meats, seafood, and vegetables using traditional recipes and techniques.
• Monitor and regulate tandoor temperatures to ensure optimal cooking performance and food quality.
• Support the Head Chef with menu execution and efficient kitchen operations.
• Prepare mise en place and ensure ingredients are ready for service.
• Maintain exceptional food safety, hygiene, and cleanliness standards in the tandoor section.
• Assist with stock control, ordering, and minimising food wastage.
• Train and guide junior kitchen staff on tandoor cooking techniques and safe equipment handling.
• Adapt efficiently to catering functions, peak trading periods, and high-volume service.

Requirements

• Minimum 3+ years of professional experience as a Tandoor Chef or in a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of authentic Indian tandoori cooking techniques, including breads, kebabs, tikkas, and clay oven cooking.
• Experience preparing traditional marinades, spice blends, and tandoor specialties.
• Ability to safely operate and maintain a traditional tandoor oven.
• Valid working rights in New Zealand.
• Own reliable transportation.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.