Sous Chef

JVR Software; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

JVR Software in South Africa seeks an experienced Head Chef to lead kitchen operations in the absence of the Head Chef. You will supervise, train and support junior staff in food prep, cooking and plating while ensuring consistent quality and presentation for all dishes.

You will assist with menu development, manage stock and ordering, monitor waste and enforce food safety and hygiene standards throughout the kitchen. Flexibility to work shifts is required as well as strong leadership.

Qualifications

• Matric/Grade 12 with a Culinary Diploma required.
• Experience as a senior chef in high-end settings is required.
• Strong leadership and organisational skills are essential.
• Fluent English with excellent communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Manage and lead kitchen operations in the Head Chef’s absence.
• Supervise and train junior kitchen staff in prep, cooking and plating.
• Oversee food prep, quality, portions, presentation and temps.
• Assist with menu development and daily reservations/events prep.
• Manage stock, ordering, rotation and storage per food safety standards.
• Monitor stock levels, reduce waste and maintain records for budget control.
• Ensure stations are stocked and organised during service.
• Maintain health, safety and hygiene standards across the kitchen.
• Manage staff rosters and ongoing training/performance development.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food safety

Staff training

Quality control

Customer service

Education

Matric / Grade 12

Culinary Diploma

Tools

MS Word

Excel

Outlook

Job description

• Manage and lead kitchen operations in the Head Chef’s absence.
• Supervise, train and support junior kitchen staff in food preparation, cooking and plating.
• Oversee food preparation and ensure consistent quality, portion sizes, presentation and correct serving temperatures.
• Assist with menu development and ensure the kitchen is prepared for daily reservations, events and menu requirements.
• Manage kitchen stock, ordering, food rotation and storage in line with food safety standards.
• Monitor stock levels, minimise waste and maintain accurate records to support budget control.
• Ensure cooking stations are fully stocked and organised during service.
• Maintain health, safety and hygiene standards throughout the kitchen.
• Manage staff and leave rosters while supporting ongoing training and performance development.

Requirements

• Must be a South African citizen and currently reside in the Cape Town Winelands area.
• Matric / Grade 12 qualification and a Culinary Diploma.
• Approximately 4 years’ experience in a senior chef role within a high-end restaurant, 5* hotel or luxury game lodge
• Valid driver’s licence and own reliable transport.
• Strong leadership, team management and organisational skills.
• Fluent in English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to quality and consistency.
• Professional, well-presented and able to deliver excellent customer service.
• Flexible to work shifts, including evenings, weekends and public holidays.