Sous Chef

Kendrick Recruitment; Pongola; On-site; ZAR 305,000 - 365,000; Full time

Job summary

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced Sous Chef for a luxury safari lodge in Pongola, KwaZulu-Natal. You will support the Executive Chef, manage daily kitchen operations and uphold top culinary standards.

Responsibilities include menu planning, staff supervision, stock control and ensuring exceptional guest dining experiences even under pressure.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef in a luxury lodge, hotel or high-end restaurant.
• Strong culinary skills with attention to detail.
• Passion for creating quality, beautifully presented food.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a kitchen team.
• Organisational and time-management skills.
• Excellent understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety standards.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure.
• Knowledge of stock control and kitchen cost management.
• Hands-on leadership in kitchen operations.
• Willingness to work shifts, weekends and public holidays.
• Experience in safari lodge or remote hospitality is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef with the daily management and operation of the kitchen.
• Prepare and present high-quality dishes in line with luxury lodge standards.
• Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, presentation and consistency.
• Assist with menu planning, recipe development and daily specials.
• Supervise and support the kitchen team during service.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared and served within the required timeframes.
• Train, mentor and develop junior kitchen staff.
• Monitor stock levels and assist with ordering and receiving of supplies.
• Maintain effective portion control and minimise food wastage.
• Ensure the kitchen remains clean, organised and compliant with health and safety regulations.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene and food safety at all times.
• Assist with kitchen administration, cost control and stock management.
• Work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth and efficient service.
• Step into a leadership role and oversee kitchen operations in the Executive Chef's absence.

Skills

Sous Chef experience

Leadership

Attention to detail

Stock control

Food safety standards

Ability to work shifts

Job description

Sous Chef | Luxury Safari Lodge | Pongola, KZN

Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking a talented and experienced Sous Chef to join a luxury safari lodge in Pongola, KwaZulu-Natal. The successful candidate will support the Executive Chef in delivering exceptional dining experiences, maintaining high culinary standards and ensuring the smooth operation of the kitchen.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the Executive Chef with the daily management and operation of the kitchen.

• Prepare and present high-quality dishes in line with luxury lodge standards.

• Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, presentation and consistency.

• Assist with menu planning, recipe development and daily specials.

• Supervise and support the kitchen team during service.

• Ensure all dishes are prepared and served within the required timeframes.

• Train, mentor and develop junior kitchen staff.

• Monitor stock levels and assist with ordering and receiving of supplies.

• Maintain effective portion control and minimise food wastage.

• Ensure the kitchen remains clean, organised and compliant with health and safety regulations.

• Maintain high standards of food hygiene and food safety at all times.

• Assist with kitchen administration, cost control and stock management.

• Work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth and efficient service.

• Step into a leadership role and oversee kitchen operations in the Executive Chef's absence.

Requirements:

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef within a luxury lodge, hotel or high-end restaurant environment.

• Strong culinary skills with excellent attention to detail.

• A passion for creating quality, beautifully presented food.

• Proven ability to lead, motivate and work effectively within a kitchen team.

• Strong organisational and time-management skills.

• Excellent understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety standards.

• Ability to remain calm and efficient under pressure.

• Good knowledge of stock control, portioning and kitchen cost management.

• Professional and hands-on approach to kitchen operations.

• Flexibility to work shifts, weekends and public holidays as required.

• Experience in a safari lodge or remote hospitality environment would be advantageous.

Salary: R30,000 per month

This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate Sous Chef to join a prestigious safari property and contribute to an exceptional guest dining experience.