Sous Chef

Karen Tupper Recruitment; Worcester; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

Karen Tupper Recruitment seeks an experienced Sous Chef for a luxury hospitality establishment in the Western Cape. You will support the Head Chef, lead daily kitchen operations, and uphold exacting standards of preparation, presentation and freshness.

You will develop staff, manage stock, ensure food safety, and assist with menu planning for reservations and events. Leadership, reliability and a passion for five-star service are essential.

Qualifications

• Senior chef with 4+ years in a high-end restaurant, hotel or lodge.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Fluent English with excellent communication.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen operations in the Head Chef's absence and support daily service.
• Supervise, train and mentor junior kitchen staff in cooking and plating.
• Ensure consistent quality, proper portions, presentation and temperatures.
• Assist with menu development and prep for reservations and events.
• Manage stock, orders, rotation, and storage in line with safety standards.
• Monitor waste, maintain records for budget control and ensure health and hygiene.

Job description

A luxury hospitality establishment is seeking an experienced and professional Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in overseeing daily kitchen operations. The successful candidate will lead and develop kitchen staff, maintain exceptional food quality and consistency, and ensure that all dishes meet the restaurant’s standards for preparation, presentation and freshness.

Key Responsibilities

• 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.