Event Chef - High-Volume Banqueting

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Overtime available

Diverse events

Staff meals

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Event Chef to join a leading event catering team in the Free State region. The role focuses on preparing and delivering high-quality dishes for banquets, conferences, and special functions, under the Head Chef's guidance.

The ideal candidate brings 3–5 years of catering experience, strong kitchen skills, and a proactive, team‑oriented approach. Flexibility for varied hours and travel is required to ensure flawless event execution.

Qualifications

• A culinary qualification or equivalent practical experience.
• 3-5 years of experience as a Chef or Cook in banqueting/large-scale catering.
• Proficiency in various cooking techniques and food presentation.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene practices.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Flexibility to work varied hours including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Willingness to travel to different event locations within the region.
• Proactive attitude and a passion for food.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook a variety of dishes for large-scale events.
• Assist the Head Chef in menu planning and development for banqueting and other functions.
• Ensure efficient and timely preparation and plating of food for service.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation, adhering to hygiene protocols.
• Manage inventory of ingredients for assigned stations and report shortages.
• Collaborate with kitchen staff and service teams to ensure smooth event execution.
• Assist with setting up food stations and presentation areas at venues.
• Adhere to company policies and health & safety regulations.
• Assist with basic kitchen maintenance and cleaning tasks.

Skills

Culinary skills

Food safety

Teamwork

Communication

Banqueting experience

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading event catering service provider operating in and around Welkom , is seeking a talented and dedicated Event Chef to join their dynamic culinary team. This role is perfect for a passionate cook with a flair for creating delicious food for large-scale banquets, conferences, and special functions. You will be responsible for assisting the Head Chef in the preparation and execution of menus for diverse events, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality and presentation. The ideal candidate will be adaptable, work efficiently under pressure, and possess excellent teamwork skills. This is a hands‑on role that requires dedication and a commitment to delivering exceptional culinary experiences to clients across the Free State region. You will be involved in various stages of event catering, from kitchen preparation to on‑site execution, contributing significantly to the success of each event.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook a variety of dishes according to established recipes and quality standards for large-scale events.


• Assist the Head Chef in menu planning and development for banqueting and other catered functions.


• Ensure efficient and timely preparation and plating of food for service.


• Maintain a clean and organized work station, adhering to strict food safety and hygiene protocols.


• Manage inventory of ingredients for assigned stations and report any shortages to the Head Chef.


• Collaborate effectively with other kitchen staff and service teams to ensure smooth event execution.


• Participate in setting up food stations and presentation areas at event venues.


• Adhere to all company policies and procedures, including health and safety regulations.


• Assist with basic kitchen maintenance and cleaning tasks as required.

Requirements

• A culinary qualification or equivalent practical experience is required.


• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience as a Chef or Cook, preferably in a banqueting or large-scale catering environment.


• Proficiency in various cooking techniques and an understanding of food presentation.


• Ability to work efficiently and accurately in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment.


• Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene practices.


• Good communication and teamwork skills.


• Flexibility to work varied hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as event schedules demand.


• Willingness to travel to different event locations within the region.


• A proactive attitude and a passion for food.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for overtime pay.


• Opportunity to work at diverse and exciting events.


• Gain experience with a leading catering company in the Free State .


• Supportive team environment and professional growth opportunities.


• Staff meals provided during shifts.


• Exposure to a wide range of catering challenges and culinary styles.