?CHEF VACANCY ALERT? ? Head Chef ? Mpumalanga ? Luxury 5-Star Lodge ? Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution. Minimum 5 years’ experience in a lodge, hotel, or fine-dining kitchen, with at least 2 years as Head Chef. ? R18 000 | Live-in
We are currently recruiting for well-established lodge seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead its kitchen operation. This is a hands‑on culinary leadership role suited to a chef with strong lodge, hotel or fine‑dining experience and a passion for delivering consistently high‑quality dining experiences in a remote bush environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Execute daily and seasonal menus in line with established standards and SOPs
- Adapt menus according to guest feedback and stock availability
- Conduct quality checks prior to service to ensure consistent standards
- Manage daily and monthly stock takes
- Maintain effective portion control and minimise wastage
- Monitor and manage food costs
- Manage staff schedules and ensure an efficient kitchen workflow
- Lead; brief and train the kitchen team
- Monitor staff performance and provide constructive feedback
- Foster teamwork, morale and effective communication within the kitchen
- Conduct pre‑shift briefings and coordinate with Front of House and service teams
- Maintain high standards of kitchen cleanliness, hygiene and food safety
- Ensure compliance with HACCP and lodge health and safety requirements
- Oversee food storage, temperature control, pest management and safe working practices
- Ensure kitchen equipment is maintained and ready for service
- Communicate daily with Front of House regarding menus, dietary requirements and guest feedback
- Provide regular updates to the General Manager regarding menu performance, staffing, equipment and operational requirements
- Prepare accurate weekly and monthly reports relating to stock, wastage, food costs and maintenance
- Engage professionally with guests regarding menu items and accommodate special dietary requests
- Stay up to date with best practices and innovations in food production, hygiene and kitchen equipment
REQUIREMENTS
- Formal culinary qualification from a recognised institution
- Minimum 5 years' experience in a lodge, hotel or fine‑dining kitchen
- At least 2 years' experience as a Head Chef
- Strong knowledge of stock management, portion control and food hygiene standards
- Proven experience preparing and presenting high‑quality plated meals
- Strong leadership and staff training abilities
- Good administrative and reporting skills
- Computer literate, with MS Office experience
- Fluent in English; an additional local language would be advantageous
- Valid driver's licence
- Willingness to work flexible shifts, weekends, public holidays and overtime
- Comfortable living and working in a remote bush environment
- Ability to work on a 21 days on / 7 days off cycle