Artisanal Catering Chef

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Creative freedom in menu design

Exposure to high-end events

Professional growth opportunities

Boutique team environment

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape invites a creative Artisanal Catering Chef to craft memorable menus for intimate gatherings, private parties, and bespoke corporate events. You will lead menu development, food preparation, and execution with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and impeccable presentation.

The role requires a culinary degree or equivalent, at least three years in high‑end catering, strong kitchen management, safety discipline, and the ability to adapt to

Qualifications

• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a chef, with a strong focus on catering or high-quality food preparation.
• Proven ability in menu development and a passion for using fresh, local ingredients.
• Experience in a similar boutique or artisanal catering environment is highly preferred.
• Excellent cooking techniques and presentation skills.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and kitchen management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovative, high-quality menus featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients for diverse events in East London.
• Prepare and cook dishes to perfection, ensuring consistent quality, taste, and presentation.
• Manage kitchen operations, including inventory, ordering, stock control, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
• Collaborate with the catering manager and team to plan event logistics and client requirements.
• Ensure all food safety and hygiene standards are strictly adhered to.
• Experiment with new ingredients, techniques, and culinary trends to continually enhance offerings.
• Oversee food preparation and plating during events, ensuring a seamless service.
• Manage food costs effectively and minimize waste.
• Contribute to a positive and creative kitchen environment.

Skills

Menu development

Food safety

Kitchen management

Creativity

Event catering

Team collaboration

Flexibility

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a boutique catering company renowned for its artisanal approach and focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients in East London, Eastern Cape , is seeking a creative and skilled Artisanal Catering Chef. This role involves crafting unique and memorable culinary experiences for intimate gatherings, private parties, and bespoke corporate events. You will be responsible for menu development, food preparation, execution, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and presentation. The ideal candidate possesses a passion for innovative cuisine, a strong understanding of seasonal produce, and the ability to work flexibly to meet the demands of varied events. Join a dedicated team committed to delivering exceptional food and service in the scenic Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovative, high-quality menus featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients for diverse events in East London .


• Prepare and cook dishes to perfection, ensuring consistent quality, taste, and presentation.


• Manage kitchen operations, including inventory, ordering, stock control, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace.


• Collaborate with the catering manager and team to plan event logistics and client requirements.


• Ensure all food safety and hygiene standards are strictly adhered to.


• Experiment with new ingredients, techniques, and culinary trends to continually enhance offerings.


• Oversee food preparation and plating during events, ensuring a seamless service.


• Manage food costs effectively and minimize waste.


• Contribute to a positive and creative kitchen environment.

Requirements

• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience.


• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a chef, with a strong focus on catering or high-quality food preparation.


• Proven ability in menu development and a passion for using fresh, local ingredients.


• Experience in a similar boutique or artisanal catering environment is highly preferred.


• Excellent cooking techniques and presentation skills.


• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and kitchen management.


• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.


• Flexible schedule, including willingness to work evenings and weekends as required by events.


• Must be based in or willing to relocate to East London, Eastern Cape .

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.


• Opportunity to work with a unique and acclaimed catering company in the Eastern Cape .


• Creative freedom in menu design and culinary exploration.


• Be part of a passionate and talented culinary team.


• Exposure to diverse and high-end events.


• Potential for professional growth and development within the company.