Sous Chef

Crew Life at Sea; Wes-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 688,000 - 1,377,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury cruise line recruiter is seeking an experienced Sous Chef for international placement onboard. This role is crucial for maintaining premium culinary operations across multiple dining venues. Responsibilities include managing galley operations and supervising kitchen staff. Candidates must have 2-3 years of experience in 4- or 5-star environments and strong leadership skills. Competitive salary, accommodation, and meals provided onboard.

Benefits

Accommodation and meals provided onboard

Career development opportunities

Support with onboarding and travel arrangements

Qualifications

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience as a Sous Chef in a 4- or 5-star hotel, resort, or on a cruise ship.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• English proficiency at B2 level or higher.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Sous Chef in managing all galley operations.
• Supervise and mentor Chef de Partie, Demi Chefs, and Commis in assigned sections.
• Ensure premium food quality, presentation, and portion control.
• Maintain compliance with food safety standards.

Skills

Leadership skills

Knowledge of international cuisine

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Food safety regulations knowledge

Job description

Position: Sous Chef
Location: International placement onboard a cruise line

About the Opportunity:
Crew Life At Sea is recruiting experienced Sous Chefs on behalf of one of our luxury cruise line partners. This role is essential to maintaining world-class culinary operations across multiple dining venues onboard. You will assist the Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef in managing daily kitchen activities, ensuring premium quality, consistency, and presentation of dishes.

This is an ideal position for culinary professionals with strong leadership skills and experience in 4- or 5-star hotels, fine dining establishments, or luxury cruise ships.

All placements are made directly with the cruise line Crew Life At Sea does not charge any recruitment or placement fees.

Role Responsibilities:

• Assist the Executive Sous Chef in managing all galley operations
• Supervise and mentor Chef de Partie, Demi Chefs, and Commis in assigned sections
• Ensure premium food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Oversee production schedules to ensure timely and efficient meal service
• Maintain compliance with food safety, hygiene, and USPH standards
• Assist in menu planning, recipe development, and inventory control
• Monitor food costs, reduce waste, and maintain budget compliance
• Provide training and leadership to maintain a motivated and high-performing team
• Step into the Executive Sous Chef role when required

What You Can Expect:

• Competitive monthly salary paid in USD
• Accommodation and meals provided onboard
• Career development opportunities in luxury hospitality at sea
• Work in a multicultural, high-performance team environment
• Full support with onboarding, certification, and travel arrangements

Who We’re Looking For:

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience as a Sous Chef in a 4- or 5-star hotel, resort, or on a cruise ship
• Strong knowledge of international cuisine and fine dining standards
• Ability to manage high-volume kitchens with multiple outlets
• Experience with food safety regulations (USPH/HACCP)
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• English proficiency at B2 level or higher