Breakfast Chef

Bright Search Recruitment; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Bright Search Recruitment is seeking an experienced Breakfast Chef for roles in hotel, lodge, resort, or restaurant settings in South Africa. The position requires early morning starts and the ability to work under pressure while delivering high-quality breakfast service.

Applicants should have a culinary qualification and strong knowledge of food safety procedures, with experience in high-volume breakfast operations being advantageous.

Qualifications

• Minimum requirement of Grade 12 with preferred culinary qualification.
• Experience in high-volume breakfast operations is advantageous.
• Certification in Food Safety/HACCP is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and present high-quality breakfast items to guests.
• Ensure food safety and hygiene standards are met at all times.
• Assist with lunch service as needed during peak periods.
• Maintain stock levels and rotate ingredients to minimize waste.
• Collaborate with kitchen team to ensure timely service.

Skills

Breakfast cookery

Food safety

Stock control

Portion control

Kitchen equipment

Education

Culinary qualification

Food Safety/HACCP Certification

First Aid Certification

Job description

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Certificate or Diploma in Culinary Arts or Professional Cookery (preferred).
• Minimum 23 years' experience as a Breakfast Chef, Commis Chef, or Chef de Partie in a hotel, lodge, resort, or restaurant.
• Experience working in high-volume breakfast operations is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Culinary qualification from a recognised institution (preferred).
• Food Safety/HACCP Certification.
• First Aid Certification (advantageous).

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of breakfast preparation and cookery techniques.
• Ability to prepare egg dishes, breakfast meats, pastries, and buffet items.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Experience with stock control and food rotation.
• Basic understanding of food costing and portion control.
• Ability to operate commercial kitchen equipment safely.

Core Competencies

• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• High standards of food presentation and consistency.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Strong work ethic and reliability.

Personal Attributes

• Passion for cooking and hospitality.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Reliable, punctual, and professional.
• Calm and focused during busy service periods.
• Flexible and adaptable to operational requirements.
• Committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Quality and consistency of breakfast dishes.
• Timely service during breakfast operations.
• Guest satisfaction and breakfast feedback scores.
• Food cost control and waste reduction.
• Compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
• Cleanliness and organisation of the breakfast kitchen.
• Stock accuracy and ingredient management.
• Contribution to team efficiency and kitchen productivity.

Working Conditions

• Based in a hotel, lodge, resort, or restaurant kitchen.
• Requires early morning starts , often from 04:3006:00 , depending on operational requirements.
• Flexible working hours, including weekends and public holidays.
• Requires standing for extended periods and working in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• May be required to assist with lunch preparation or other kitchen duties after breakfast service.