Head Chef (Airline Catering)
Job Description
We are looking for an experienced and innovative Head Chef to lead our airline catering kitchen in Dubai. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing kitchen operations, designing high-quality inflight menus, ensuring food safety standards, and leading a team to deliver excellence in large-scale food production for international airlines.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily kitchen operations for airline catering services
- Develop creative, high-quality menus that meet airline standards and passenger preferences
- Supervise food preparation to ensure consistency, taste, presentation, and portion control
- Manage and train kitchen staff, ensuring smooth workflow and productivity
- Coordinate with procurement to source fresh, safe, and high-quality ingredients
- Ensure strict compliance with HACCP, food safety, and hygiene regulations
- Monitor food costs, waste control, and kitchen efficiency
- Collaborate with airline representatives to meet menu specifications and special meal requirements
- Ensure timely preparation and dispatch of meals to meet flight schedules
- Conduct regular quality checks and kitchen audits
Required Skills
- Strong leadership and team management abilities
- Expertise in international cuisine and large-scale food production
- Strong knowledge of HACCP and airline catering standards
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Creativity in menu development and food presentation
- Ability to work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
Qualifications
- Culinary degree or diploma from a recognized institution
- Minimum 5–10 years of experience in professional kitchens, including 3+ years in a supervisory or head chef role
- Previous experience in airline catering or large-banquet operations preferred
- Strong communication skills (English required; additional languages a plus)
- Ability to work flexible hours, including shifts, weekends, and holidays
