0 open Drakes Supermarket vacancies in Australia

Drakes Supermarkets is one of Australia's largest independent supermarket operators, with stores primarily concentrated in South Australia and Queensland. Unlike the national chains, Drakes is family-owned and operated — a distinction that shapes both the culture and the employment experience. If you're looking for supermarket work in Adelaide, suburban SA towns, or parts of Queensland, Drakes is one of the more significant independent employers worth considering.

This guide covers the types of roles available at Drakes, what the pay looks like, how to apply, and what to expect from the process. For what employees say about working there, see our Drakes Supermarket employee reviews. For interview preparation, check our Drakes Supermarket interview questions guide.

About Drakes Supermarkets

Drakes Supermarkets was founded by Roger Drake in 1974 and has grown from a single store in Adelaide to a significant independent chain. The company opted out of the IGA network in 2019 to operate independently under the Drakes brand. Stores range from neighbourhood formats to large supermarkets, and the company competes directly with Woolworths, Coles, and ALDI across SA and parts of QLD. Being independently owned means operational decisions can be made faster than at national chains, which often translates to a different kind of workplace culture.

Types of Jobs at Drakes Supermarkets

Supermarket operations create demand for checkout and service operators, night fill and stock replenishment workers, fresh produce, deli, bakery, and meat department staff, department managers and supervisors, and store management. Drakes also has trade roles in its butchery departments where qualified butchers command higher wages. The company operates its own distribution and logistics function, creating warehouse and transport roles. Administration and buying functions at the corporate level are smaller than the store network given the company's independent structure.

Drakes Supermarket Salary Overview

Position	Hourly Rate (Approx)	Annual Equivalent
Checkout / Service Operator (casual)	$22.00 – $25.50	N/A (casual)
Night Fill / Storeperson	$22.50 – $26.00	$44,000 – $51,000
Deli / Bakery Operator	$23.00 – $27.00	$45,000 – $53,000
Qualified Butcher	$30.00 – $38.00	$59,000 – $75,000
Department Supervisor	$27.00 – $32.00	$53,000 – $63,000
Store Manager	Salary	$85,000 – $120,000

Drakes Supermarkets employees are covered by the General Retail Industry Award or applicable Enterprise Agreement. Weekend and public holiday penalty rates apply under the Award. The company is an independent operator and pay rates may differ slightly from major chain equivalents at some positions.

How to Apply for Drakes Supermarket Jobs

Applications for Drakes can be made through their website at drakes.com.au or by visiting the store directly and speaking with the store manager. In-person applications are particularly effective at Drakes given the family-owned culture — managers at individual stores often have direct hiring authority and can make decisions without the multi-layer HR processes that govern hiring at major chains. Availability, reliability, and a genuine interest in customer service are the primary qualities Drakes looks for in entry-level candidates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age to work at Drakes?

Generally 15 years old, in line with SA and QLD employment legislation for retail workers. Many stores prefer applicants 16 and above for rostering flexibility. Adult rates apply from 21 under the General Retail Award.

Does Drakes Supermarkets offer full-time positions?

Yes, Drakes employs full-time, part-time, and casual staff. Permanent positions are more readily available in fresh departments (deli, bakery, meat) and in supervisory and management roles. Entry-level positions tend to start casual with pathways to permanent employment for reliable performers.