Sous Chef (4 Month FTC)

Kendrick Recruitment; Mogwase; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a talented Sous Chef for a luxury safari lodge at Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga. This is a four-month fixed-term contract demanding top-tier culinary skill, leadership, and the ability to maintain exceptional dining experiences under high standards.

The role requires previous senior kitchen experience in luxury settings, a relevant culinary qualification preferred, and a hands-on leadership approach to drive a small team through daily service and seasonal

Qualifications

• Experience in luxury lodge or fine dining kitchens.
• Proven leadership and ability to train and motivate staff.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and stock control.
• Ability to manage high-pressure service while maintaining standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Chef with daily kitchen management and operations.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking and presentation to uphold high standards.
• Monitor quality, consistency and attention to detail across dishes.
• Supervise and motivate kitchen team for efficient service.
• Ensure menus meet guest preferences and dietary requirements.
• Control stock levels and food costs, minimise waste.
• Uphold strict hygiene and cleanliness throughout the kitchen.
• Assist with ordering, receiving and storing ingredients.
• Collaborate with front-of-house for seamless service.
• Support menu planning and seasonal dish introductions.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen management

Food safety

Culinary excellence

Guest satisfaction

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

Sous Chef – 4-Month Fixed-Term Contract | Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a talented and experienced Sous Chef for a luxury safari lodge situated in the Kruger National Park. This is an exciting four-month fixed-term contract opportunity for a passionate culinary professional who thrives in a high-end hospitality environment and is committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the Head Chef with the daily management and smooth running of the kitchen.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking and presentation to ensure consistently high culinary standards.
• Maintain exceptional quality, consistency and attention to detail across all dishes.
• Supervise, train and motivate kitchen staff, ensuring efficient teamwork and productivity.
• Ensure menus are executed to the required standards, accommodating guest preferences and dietary requirements.
• Monitor stock levels, manage food costs and minimise wastage.
• Maintain strict food safety, hygiene and cleanliness standards throughout the kitchen.
• Assist with ordering, receiving and storing ingredients in accordance with established procedures.
• Work collaboratively with the front-of-house team to ensure seamless meal service and guest satisfaction.
• Support the Head Chef with menu planning, special events and the introduction of seasonal dishes.

Requirements:

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef or in a senior kitchen role within a luxury lodge, hotel or fine-dining establishment.
• A relevant culinary qualification would be advantageous.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage and motivate a kitchen team.
• Excellent knowledge of food preparation techniques, presentation and kitchen operations.
• A sound understanding of food safety, hygiene and stock control procedures.
• The ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining high standards.
• A flexible, hands-on approach and a genuine passion for delivering outstanding culinary experiences.
• Availability to commit to the full four-month fixed-term contract.

Salary: Negotiable, depending on experience.

Location: Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga.

Property Type: Luxury Safari Lodge.