Cook

Junior Colleges; Alberton; On-site; ZAR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Junior Colleges in Alberton is seeking an Assistant Cook to join our kitchen team. You will support the head chef in daily operations, help prep ingredients, and ensure meals meet recipes and quality standards.

You will maintain clean workstations, follow food safety protocols, and assist with service and post-service cleaning. A positive, team-oriented attitude and willingness to learn are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in a kitchen or food prep environment.
• Understanding of basic food safety and sanitation.
• Ability to follow recipes and instructions precisely.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing ingredients and components for daily menus.
• Support head chef during service and ensure recipes and presentation standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of workstations and storage areas.
• Follow food safety protocols and proper food handling.
• Assist with stock checks and reporting shortages.

Skills

Kitchen experience

Food safety knowledge

Basic cooking skills

Team player

Fast-paced environment

Education

Certificate in Culinary Arts

Tools

Kitchen equipment

Job description

About the Role

As an Assistant Cook, you will play a vital role in our kitchen team by helping to prepare high-quality meals while ensuring food safety and hygiene standards are maintained. This position focuses on supporting the head chef in daily operations, contributing to a smooth and efficient cooking process.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of ingredients and meal components for daily menu items.
• Support the head chef during food service, ensuring all dishes are prepared according to recipes and presentation standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of workstations, kitchen equipment, and storage areas.
• Follow food safety protocols, including proper handling and storage of food items.
• Participate in inventory management by assisting with stock checks and reporting shortages to the head chef.
• Support innovative food preparation techniques, following guidelines to enhance the overall dining experience.
• Collaborate with the kitchen team to ensure timely and accurate meal delivery.
• Assist in the completion of cleaning duties post-service, maintaining a tidy work environment.

Requirements

• Demonstrable experience in a kitchen environment, preferably as a cook or kitchen assistant.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Basic cooking skills and familiarity with kitchen equipment and tools.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong communication skills and a team-oriented attitude.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new recipes and techniques.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certificate in Culinary Arts or a related field is a plus.
• Experience working in a restaurant or catering environment.
• Knowledge of dietary restrictions and allergen management.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We comply with the Employment Equity Act and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.