Description:
Position Description – Food Van Manager/Supervisor
Location: Hope Dreaming Information Centre, 7 Caloundra Road, Caloundra
Reports to: Centre Manager (Hope Dreaming Information Centre)
Employment Type: Full-Time or Casual (negotiable)
Award Classification: Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 – Level 4–6 (based on experience)
Position Overview:
Triballink is seeking an experienced and motivated Food Van Manager/Supervisor to take full responsibility for the operation of our permanently based food van , located at the Hope Dreaming Information Centre.
This role is hands-on and requires someone who can lead the van’s daily operations with professionalism and passion, ensuring a high standard of food quality, presentation, customer service, cleanliness, and cultural integrity.
Key Responsibilities:
Manage the day-to-day operations of the food van.
Prepare and serve a culturally inspired menu using bush tucker, fresh, and locally sourced ingredients .
Operate and manage smoked food preparation , using the van’s smoker.
Ensure food presentation and taste are of a consistently high standard.
Oversee staff recruitment and rostering , in collaboration with the Centre Manager.
Order and manage stock, food supplies, and packaging materials.
Maintain food safety, hygiene, and cleanliness standards in line with regulations.
Operate coffee machine and prepare high-quality hot beverages.
Deliver excellent customer service and foster a welcoming, culturally respectful space.
Coordinate the preparation and packaging of retail food products (e.g., Lemon Myrtle syrup, dried herbs).
Monitor and manage budgets, food costs, and sales reporting.
Support seasonal menu updates and cultural food offerings.
Selection Criteria:
Essential:
Proven experience in a similar food van, café, or hospitality supervisory/management role.
Strong food preparation and service skills, including smoked food techniques.
Experience with ordering, rostering, and managing a small team.
Understanding of food safety, hygiene standards, and WHS practices.
Ability to deliver a culturally respectful and professional customer experience.
Barista skills and coffee service experience.
High level of organizational and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Willingness to engage with and promote First Nations culture through food .
Desirable:
Experience with bush tucker ingredients or Indigenous food practices.
Certificate III or IV in Hospitality, Commercial Cookery or similar.
Experience coordinating production of value-added products (e.g., jams, syrups, herbs).
Experience in community or not-for-profit settings.
Conditions of Employment:
Hours of operation are daytime only (breakfast and lunch service).
Some weekend work may be required.
Pay and conditions are in accordance with the Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 , with level and rate negotiated based on experience and qualifications.