Sous Chef - Fine Dining & Events

Placements24; Queenstown (MD); On-site; USD 24,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Staff meals

Uniform provided

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, seeks a skilled Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in all kitchen operations. You will lead a busy team, contribute to menu development, and ensure top quality with strict hygiene and cost controls.

The ideal candidate has at least 4 years of leadership experience in a professional kitchen, formal culinary training, and strong food presentation skills. This role offers growth within a respected culinary team in a vibrant events setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years in a Sous Chef role or equivalent in a reputable kitchen.
• Formal culinary training or equivalent experience.
• Strong culinary knowledge, presentation standards and techniques.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Good understanding of food costing, inventory control and financials.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef with menu planning, recipe development and dish execution.
• Supervise and mentor kitchen staff to ensure efficient workflow and high standards.
• Oversee food prep, cooking and presentation for quality and consistency.
• Manage inventory, rotation and ordering of ingredients.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation and hygiene regulations.
• Control costs and minimize waste through effective management.
• Stand in for Head Chef when needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-equipped kitchen.
• Foster a positive and professional kitchen culture.
• Contribute to training and development of junior staff.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Culinary techniques

Food costing

Inventory management

Communication

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished establishment known for its fine dining experiences and high-quality event catering in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , is seeking a skilled and ambitious Sous Chef. This role is instrumental in supporting the Head Chef in all aspects of kitchen operations, ensuring the consistent delivery of exceptional culinary creations. You will be involved in menu development, food preparation, team leadership, and maintaining rigorous standards of quality, hygiene, and cost control. The ideal candidate is passionate about food, possesses strong practical culinary skills, and has experience in a leadership capacity within a busy kitchen. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career in a challenging yet rewarding environment, contributing to the culinary reputation of Queenstown .

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in menu planning, recipe development, and execution of all dishes.
• Supervise and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring efficient workflow and high standards of performance.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation to maintain quality and consistency.
• Manage inventory, stock rotation, and ordering of ingredients for the kitchen.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations.
• Control food costs and minimize waste through effective management practices.
• Deputize for the Head Chef in their absence.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-equipped kitchen environment.
• Contribute to a positive and professional kitchen culture.
• Participate in the training and development of junior kitchen staff.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of experience as a Sous Chef, Chef de Partie, or equivalent in a reputable kitchen.
• Formal culinary training or equivalent professional experience.
• Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, ingredients, and presentation standards.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Good understanding of food costing, inventory management, and financial controls.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Queenstown, Eastern Cape .
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• A passion for culinary excellence.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work in a high-quality dining and events setting.
• Professional growth and development within a respected culinary team.
• Supportive work environment in Queenstown .
• Staff meals and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Uniform provided.