Senior chef De Partie

Kendrick Recruitment; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 134,000 - 167,000; Full time

Job summary

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a skilled Senior Chef de Partie for a luxury safari lodge in the Greater Kruger, Mpumalanga. The role focuses on delivering exceptional dining experiences, maintaining high kitchen standards and leading a section with pride and professionalism.

You will oversee daily kitchen operations, assist with menu development and training, ensure food safety and stock control, and accommodate dietary requests while maintaining quality under pressure.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Chef de Partie or Senior Chef de Partie within a luxury lodge, hotel or fine-dining establishment.
• Strong culinary skills and a sound understanding of food preparation techniques.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, hygiene and kitchen cleanliness standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operation of the assigned kitchen section, ensuring efficient preparation and service.
• Prepare and present high-quality dishes in accordance with the lodge's culinary standards.
• Maintain consistency in food quality, flavour, portion sizes and presentation.
• Assist the Head Chef and Sous Chef with menu planning, daily specials and menu development.
• Supervise and support junior chefs and kitchen assistants, providing guidance and training where required.
• Monitor stock levels, assist with stocktaking and minimise food wastage.
• Coordinate with the wider kitchen team to ensure smooth service during busy periods.
• Accommodate guests' dietary requirements and special requests where possible.

Skills

Leadership

Food safety

Hygiene standards

Menu planning

Attention to detail

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

Senior Chef de Partie – Greater Kruger, Mpumalanga

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a skilled and passionate Senior Chef de Partie to join a luxury safari lodge in the Greater Kruger region. This opportunity is suited to an experienced culinary professional who takes pride in delivering exceptional food quality, maintaining high kitchen standards and contributing to memorable dining experiences within a luxury safari environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the daily operation of the assigned kitchen section, ensuring efficient preparation and service.
• Prepare and present high-quality dishes in accordance with the lodge's culinary standards.
• Maintain consistency in food quality, flavour, portion sizes and presentation.
• Assist the Head Chef and Sous Chef with menu planning, daily specials and menu development.
• Supervise and support junior chefs and kitchen assistants, providing guidance and training where required.
• Ensure all food preparation areas are maintained in accordance with strict hygiene and food safety standards.
• Monitor stock levels, assist with stocktaking and minimise food wastage.
• Ensure ingredients are stored, labelled and handled correctly.
• Coordinate with the wider kitchen team to ensure smooth service during busy periods.
• Accommodate guests' dietary requirements and special requests where possible.
• Assist with maintaining kitchen equipment and reporting any maintenance requirements.
• Contribute to a positive, disciplined and professional kitchen environment.

Requirements:

• Previous experience as a Chef de Partie or Senior Chef de Partie within a luxury lodge, hotel or fine-dining establishment.
• A relevant culinary qualification would be advantageous.
• Strong culinary skills and a sound understanding of food preparation techniques.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, hygiene and kitchen cleanliness standards.The ability to lead a section independently and support junior team members.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• The ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining consistent quality.
• A flexible, hands-on approach and willingness to assist across the kitchen when required.
• A genuine passion for food, hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences.

Salary: R12,000 – R15,000 per month, depending on experience.

Location: Greater Kruger, Mpumalanga.

Property Type: Luxury Safari Lodge.