Senior Sous Chef - Live In

Staff Unlimited Recruitment; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 334,800 - 558,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury hospitality firm in Gqeberha seeks an experienced Senior Sous Chef to oversee kitchen operations in a high-end dining environment. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years in senior culinary roles, demonstrate strong leadership skills, and ensure exceptional food quality. Responsibilities include managing kitchen staff, maintaining hygiene standards, and fostering guest engagement for a personalized dining experience. A diploma in Culinary Arts is essential, along with a valid driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior culinary role within a 5-star lodge or hospitality environment.
• Proven experience managing and leading kitchen brigades.
• Strong knowledge of food safety and hygiene.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations and ensure smooth service delivery.
• Support all kitchen sections to maintain efficient workflow.
• Engage with guests regarding menu preferences.

Skills

Leadership skills

Ability to work under pressure

Excellent communication skills

Attention to detail

Food costing knowledge

Education

Diploma or formal qualification in Culinary Arts

Tools

POS systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Title: Senior Sous Chef

Department: Kitchen
Reports to: Head Chef
Location: Hospitality / Luxury Lodge Environment

Job Overview

An experienced and dynamic Senior Sous Chef is required to support the Head Chef in overseeing daily kitchen operations within a high-end hospitality environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining exceptional food quality, managing kitchen teams, and ensuring a seamless and personalised dining experience for guests.

Minimum Requirements

• Diploma or formal qualification in Culinary Arts
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior culinary role within a 5-star lodge or hospitality environment
• Proven experience managing and leading kitchen brigades
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen operations

Key Responsibilities Kitchen Operations & Service Delivery

• Oversee daily kitchen operations and ensure smooth service delivery
• Run kitchen shifts and conduct pre-service briefings
• Ensure all food meets high standards of quality, presentation, and consistency
• Support all kitchen sections to maintain efficient workflow and service excellence

Guest Experience

• Engage with guests regarding menu preferences, dietary requirements, and special occasions
• Ensure personalised dining experiences through clear communication with front-of-house teams

Food Quality & Standards

• Enforce standardised recipes, portion control, and plating standards
• Maintain organised systems for menus, recipes, and kitchen documentation
• Stay updated on industry trends, standards, and best practices

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise, motivate, and manage kitchen staff during preparation and service
• Train, mentor, and develop junior chefs to maintain high performance levels
• Foster a positive and productive kitchen environment

Compliance & Administration

• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
• Maintain accurate kitchen records and administrative processes
• Assist with stock control, ordering, and supplier coordination

Cost Control

• Monitor food costing, stock levels, and wastage
• Support budget management and cost efficiency initiatives

Key Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• High attention to detail and organisational ability
• Professional, reliable, and responsible work ethic
• Strong understanding of food costing and inventory management
• Working knowledge of POS systems and Microsoft Office

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver’s licence