Commis Chef

Capsicum Culinary Studio; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 50 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A culinary training institute is seeking a Commis Chef in Pretoria. The role involves assisting senior chefs with daily food preparation, ensuring compliance with food safety standards, and maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen. Candidates should demonstrate skills in basic butchery, vegetable and sauce preparation. Strong teamwork, communication, and the ability to work under pressure are essential. This position offers opportunities to gain hands-on culinary experience in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Assist senior chefs in daily food preparation for retail counters and catering orders.
• Prepare, cook and present food items according to standardized recipes and portion controls.
• Ensure all food is prepared and stored in accordance with food safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Support production of hot foods, cold dishes, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals.
• Assist with bulk food preparation for corporate and private catering events.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of workstations in line with health and safety standards.

Skills

Basic butchery skills

Vegetable preparation skills

Sauce preparation skills

Understanding of food costing

Knowledge of food safety (HACCP principles)

Ability to work under pressure

Strong teamwork skills

Communication skills

Time management ability

Multitasking ability

Job description

Commis Chef Capsicum Culinary Studio•Tshwane (Pretoria), Gauteng, ZA

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior chefs in daily food preparation for retail counters and catering orders.
• Prepare, cook and present food items according to standardised recipes and portion controls.
• Support production of hot foods, cold dishes, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals for in-store sales.
• Assist with bulk food preparation for corporate and private catering events.
• Ensure all food is prepared and stored in accordance with food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of workstations in line with health and safety standards.
• Monitor stock levels and assist with stock rotation (FIFO) to minimise waste.
• Assist in receiving and checking deliveries for quality and freshness.
• Ensure correct labelling, dating, and storage of ingredients and prepared items.
• Support menu preparation and contribute ideas for new retail-ready products.
• Provide assistance during peak trading periods and catering functions.
• Maintain high standards of presentation for display counters and packaged meals.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and report maintenance issues when necessary.
• Work collaboratively with retail staff to ensure smooth service and customer satisfaction.

Skills & Competencies Demonstrated

• Basic butchery, vegetable preparation, and sauce preparation skills
• Understanding of food costing and portion control
• Knowledge of food safety (HACCP principles)
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced retail environment
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Time management and multitasking ability