Head Chef – Luxury Wilderness Lodge (Live-In)

HospitalityandOutdoor; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 312,000 - 402,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing

Meals

Uniform

Job summary

Hospitality & Outdoor is seeking a creative Head Chef to lead the kitchen at a luxury wilderness lodge near Clanwilliam. The role requires hands-on culinary expertise, strong leadership, and a passion for seasonal produce to deliver memorable dining experiences.

The successful candidate will manage food costs, develop menus, and ensure high standards across all kitchen areas while maintaining health and safety compliance. Live-in accommodation and meals are provided.

Qualifications

• Recognised culinary qualification or equivalent is essential.
• Two to three years of relevant culinary experience.
• Experience in a high-end lodge or restaurant environment is essential.
• Experience in boutique or smaller establishments would be advantageous.
• Strong leadership, communication, organisational and cost-control skills.
• Must be available to work evenings, weekends and public holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations maintaining high standards of food quality, flavour and presentation.
• Develop creative seasonal menus balancing guest expectations, operations, quality and budget.
• Prepare homemade products (bread, pastries, sausages, desserts, gelato).
• Consider guests' dietary needs and feedback when planning meals.
• Manage food costs, budgets, stock levels, orders and supplier relationships.
• Maintain kitchen hygiene, food safety, cleanliness and equipment standards.
• Lead, mentor, train the kitchen team and schedule staff.
• Keep menus fresh with seasonal ingredients and trends.
• Collaborate with lodge team to deliver seamless guest experiences.

Skills

Leadership

Creativity

Cost control

Menu planning

Food safety

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

Hospitality & Outdoor is seeking a creative Head Chef to lead the kitchen at a luxury wilderness lodge near Clanwilliam. The role requires hands-on culinary expertise, strong leadership, and a passion for seasonal produce to deliver memorable dining experiences.

The successful candidate will manage food costs, develop menus, and ensure high standards across all kitchen areas while maintaining health and safety compliance. Live-in accommodation and meals are provided.