Gourmet Catering Chef

Placements24; Kempton Park; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Opportunities for growth

Creative culinary environment

Employee discounts on catering

Job summary

Placements24 in Gauteng is seeking a Gourmet Catering Chef to lead menu design, food preparation, and high‑quality plating for diverse events. This hybrid role blends hands-on kitchen duties with potential remote tasks such as menu planning and costing, offering growth and creativity in a fast‑paced setting.

Key responsibilities include managing kitchen operations, supervising staff, controlling costs, and ensuring HACCP compliance.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef, with a strong background in gourmet catering or fine dining.
• Demonstrated ability in menu creation, recipe development, and food costing.
• Excellent knowledge of culinary techniques, flavor profiles, and international cuisines.
• Proficiency in kitchen management, including staff supervision, inventory control, and budget management.
• Strong understanding and implementation of food safety and sanitation regulations (e.g., HACCP).
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to work under pressure.
• Creative flair and a passion for food presentation.

Responsibilities

• Design, prepare, and present innovative and delicious menus for various events, adhering to client specifications and dietary requirements.
• Manage kitchen operations efficiently, including food preparation, cooking, and plating, ensuring timely execution of all orders.
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and proper storage of food supplies, minimizing waste.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety and hygiene standards, ensuring a clean and sanitary work environment.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to coordinate menu details, logistics, and service execution.
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, fostering a team‑oriented and high‑performance culture.
• Control food costs and manage budgets effectively without compromising on quality.
• Develop and implement new recipes and culinary techniques to enhance the company's offerings.
• Conduct taste tests and quality control checks before food leaves the kitchen.
• Contribute creative ideas during menu development meetings.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food costing

Communication

Time management

Education

Formal culinary training

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious catering service provider in **Tembisa, Gauteng**, is seeking a talented and passionate **Gourmet Catering Chef** to join their bustling kitchen. This role offers a hybrid work model, blending hands‑on kitchen duties with potential for remote administrative tasks such as menu planning and costing. You will be at the forefront of creating exquisite culinary delights for a diverse range of events, from intimate corporate gatherings to grand celebrations. We are looking for an individual with a refined palate, exceptional technical skills, and a deep understanding of food presentation. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast‑paced environment, possesses strong leadership qualities, and is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of quality and creativity. This position is critical in driving our client's reputation for delivering unforgettable gastronomic experiences that leave a lasting impression on every guest.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, prepare, and present innovative and delicious menus for various events, adhering to client specifications and dietary requirements.
• Manage kitchen operations efficiently, including food preparation, cooking, and plating, ensuring timely execution of all orders.
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and proper storage of food supplies, minimizing waste.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety and hygiene standards, ensuring a clean and sanitary work environment.
• Collaborate with the event planning team to coordinate menu details, logistics, and service execution.
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, fostering a team‑oriented and high‑performance culture.
• Control food costs and manage budgets effectively without compromising on quality.
• Develop and implement new recipes and culinary techniques to enhance the company's offerings.
• Conduct taste tests and quality control checks before food leaves the kitchen.
• Contribute creative ideas during menu development meetings.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Chef, with a strong background in gourmet catering or fine dining.
• Demonstrated ability in menu creation, recipe development, and food costing.
• Excellent knowledge of culinary techniques, flavor profiles, and international cuisines.
• Proficiency in kitchen management, including staff supervision, inventory control, and budget management.
• Strong understanding and implementation of food safety and sanitation regulations (e.g., HACCP).
• Exceptional organizational and time‑management skills, with the ability to work under pressure.
• Creative flair and a passion for food presentation.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for effective teamwork and client interaction.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by event schedules.
• Formal culinary training or equivalent experience is essential.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses in **Tembisa, Gauteng**.
• Health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• Creative environment fostering culinary innovation.
• Work on diverse and exciting events.
• Access to a well‑equipped professional kitchen.
• Employee discounts on catering services.