Assistant Chef

Dunstone; Wellington; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury boutique kitchen in Wellington is seeking an Assistant Chef to support the Head Chef in delivering a premium culinary experience. Ideal candidates should have 1-2 years of experience and a passion for seasonal cuisine. Responsibilities include food preparation, maintaining kitchen hygiene, and collaborating with the kitchen team. The role offers mentorship and opportunities for career growth within the Dunstone hospitality brand.

Benefits

Opportunity for career growth

Mentorship from skilled Head Chef

Beautiful working environment

Exposure to fine wines and seasonal cooking

Qualifications

• 1-2 years’ experience in a professional kitchen.
• Good knowledge of kitchen hygiene and food safety regulations.
• Eagerness to learn and grow in a fine-dining environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the daily preparation and plating of set menu dishes.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in all kitchen areas.
• Work closely with the kitchen team to ensure smooth service.

Skills

Food preparation

Team collaboration

Kitchen hygiene knowledge

Seasonal cooking

Education

Culinary qualification or in-service training

Job description

Department: ROOTS Bistro | Dunstone Estate
Position: Assistant Chef – Full-Time
Location: Bovlei Valley, Wellington
Start Date: As Soon As Possible
Remuneration: Competitive – Based on experience

Position Overview:
Roots Bistro at Dunstone Estate is looking for a talented and motivated Assistant Chef to support our Head Chef in delivering a premium culinary experience that reflects the estate’s refined charm and commitment to quality. This role is ideal for a chef with strong foundational skills, a passion for seasonal cuisine, and a desire to grow within a high-end hospitality environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Food Preparation & Execution
  • Assist in the daily preparation and plating of:
    • Set menu dishes (amuse-bouche, starters, mains, desserts)
    • French-Belgian style lunch platters
    • Breakfast buffet and à la carte offerings
    • Ensure all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality and consistency
    • Help with menu mise en place and ingredient prep

• Kitchen Operations
  • Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in all kitchen areas
  • Support the Head Chef with daily kitchen duties
  • Help manage inventory and stock rotation
  • Assist with receiving and storing fresh produce and deliveries

• Team Collaboration
  • Work closely with the kitchen team to ensure smooth service
  • Take initiative and communicate effectively under pressure
  • Be adaptable to different roles and shifts (breakfast, lunch, events)

Required Experience & Skills:

• • 1–2 years’ experience in a professional kitchen
  • Culinary qualification or in-service training preferred
  • Good knowledge of kitchen hygiene and food safety regulations
  • Passion for seasonal, farm-to-table cooking
  • Eagerness to learn and grow in a fine-dining environment
  • Ability to follow instructions and take initiative

What We Offer:

• • An opportunity to grow your career in a luxury boutique kitchen
  • Mentorship from a skilled Head Chef
  • Exposure to fine wines, seasonal cooking, and sustainable sourcing
  • A beautiful working environment on a private wine estate
  • Possibility of long-term growth and development within the Dunstone hospitality brand