Sous Chef - Boutique Hotel

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Staff meals

Accommodation assistance

Pension fund

Job summary

Placements24 invites a talented Sous Chef to join a charming boutique hotel in Bloemfontein. You will work closely with the Head Chef to develop innovative menus and ensure top-quality dishes for intimate dining experiences.

You will supervise junior staff, manage inventory, monitor food costs, and uphold HACCP standards while maintaining a creative, supportive kitchen environment. Shift flexibility, including evenings and weekends, is required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in professional kitchens with 2+ years in a sous chef or supervisory role.
• Experience in reputable hotel or restaurant environment a plus.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to mentor staff.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Chef with menu planning, recipe development, and food costing.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, food prep, cooking, and plating quality.
• Supervise junior kitchen staff, provide training and guidance.
• Manage inventory, conduct stock takes, and order supplies efficiently.
• Maintain strict HACCP and sanitation standards.
• Control food costs and minimize waste through planning.
• Ensure kitchen remains clean, organized and well-maintained.
• Lead kitchen in Head Chef's absence and collaborate with F&B team.

Skills

Team leadership

Menu development

Cost control

Food safety

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a charming boutique hotel located in Bloemfontein, is actively searching for a talented and driven Sous Chef to join their culinary team. This role offers an excellent opportunity for an ambitious chef to work closely with the Head Chef in a creative and supportive environment, contributing to the development of innovative menus and upholding the highest standards of food quality. The Sous Chef will play a key role in daily kitchen operations, supervising junior staff, managing inventory, and ensuring compliance with all health and safety regulations. The hotel is known for its intimate dining experience, making this a unique position for a chef passionate about crafting exceptional dishes. The position is based in Bloemfontein, a city with a growing culinary landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in menu planning, recipe development, and food costing.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Supervise and mentor junior kitchen staff, providing training and guidance to enhance their skills.
• Manage inventory levels, conduct regular stock takes, and ensure efficient ordering and receiving of supplies.
• Maintain strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.
• Control food costs and minimize waste through effective planning and execution.
• Ensure the kitchen is clean, organized, and well-maintained at all times.
• Step in to lead the kitchen in the absence of the Head Chef.
• Collaborate with the F&B team to ensure seamless service delivery.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in professional kitchens, with at least 2 years in a Sous Chef or equivalent supervisory role.
• Proven experience in a reputable hotel or restaurant environment.
• Strong understanding of various cooking techniques and cuisines.
• Knowledge of food cost control and inventory management principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Proficiency in food safety and sanitation practices (e.g., HACCP).
• Culinary qualifications from a recognized institution are highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the culinary field.
• Medical aid contributions.
• Staff meals and uniform provided.
• Accommodation assistance may be considered.
• A supportive and creative work environment in Bloemfontein.
• Pension fund benefits.