Sous Chef - Fine Dining

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Michelin-level kitchen experience in a

Professional development and training

Share of tips

Staff meals

Opportunities for culinary competition

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Sous Chef for a prestigious fine dining restaurant in Bloemfontein, Free State. You will work closely with the Head Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, ensure top-tier food quality, and contribute to menu innovation.

Lead, mentor, and manage junior staff while maintaining strict cost controls and standards. The ideal candidate has at least 4 years in progressive culinary roles with supervisory experience, strong leadership, and expertise in haute

Qualifications

• 4+ years of progressive culinary experience, including supervisory role in fine dining.
• Formal culinary education from a reputable institution is preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of haute cuisine techniques and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Chef in menu planning, food prep, and quality control.
• Supervise kitchen staff during service for smooth operations.
• Prepare and cook high-quality dishes, including complex signature items.
• Inspect kitchen to ensure health, safety, and sanitation compliance.
• Manage inventory, control food costs, and ensure efficient ordering/receiving.
• Mentor and develop junior chefs and kitchen staff.
• Collaborate on menu development and seasonal updates.
• Maintain presentation and portion control for all dishes.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is clean and well-maintained.
• Step in as Head Chef when needed.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Staff development

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Working under pressure

Education

Formal culinary education

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an award-winning fine dining restaurant, is searching for a highly skilled and motivated Sous Chef to join their prestigious culinary team in **Bloemfontein, Free State**. This role is an integral part of the kitchen leadership, working closely with the Head Chef to oversee daily operations, ensure the highest standards of food quality, and contribute to menu innovation. The successful candidate will possess exceptional culinary technique, a deep understanding of fine dining principles, and strong leadership capabilities. You will be instrumental in mentoring junior staff, managing kitchen resources efficiently, and maintaining a harmonious and productive work environment. This is an unparalleled opportunity to elevate your career in a sophisticated culinary setting in **Bloemfontein**, contributing to a restaurant celebrated for its exquisite cuisine and impeccable service. We seek a dedicated professional committed to excellence and the art of gastronomy.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in all aspects of kitchen management, including menu planning, food preparation, and quality control.
• Supervise and direct kitchen staff during service, ensuring smooth and efficient operation.
• Prepare and cook high-quality dishes, particularly complex and signature items, meeting the restaurant's exacting standards.
• Conduct regular inspections of the kitchen to ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Manage inventory, control food costs, and ensure efficient ordering and receiving of supplies.
• Train, mentor, and develop junior chefs and kitchen assistants, fostering their culinary skills and career growth.
• Collaborate with the Head Chef on new menu development, recipe testing, and seasonal updates.
• Maintain consistent presentation and portion control for all dishes served.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is clean, well-maintained, and operating correctly.
• Step in as Head Chef in their absence, managing all kitchen operations effectively.

Requirements

• A minimum of 4 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 1 year in a Sous Chef or similar supervisory role in a fine dining or upscale restaurant.
• Formal culinary education from a reputable institution is strongly preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of French and international haute cuisine techniques.
• Proven ability in leadership, team management, and staff development.
• Strong understanding of food costing, inventory management, and budget control.
• Exceptional palate and a keen eye for detail in both taste and presentation.
• Proficiency in all food safety and hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP).
• Ability to perform under pressure in a demanding, fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to **Bloemfontein**, Free State, and available to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• A passion for culinary arts and a commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package reflecting your expertise and contribution.
• You will have the unique opportunity to work in a Michelin-level kitchen environment in **Bloemfontein**, learning from some of the best in the industry.
• Professional development and training opportunities are readily available.
• This role provides a significant platform for career advancement within the fine dining sector.
• The position includes a share of tips, staff meals, and potential for involvement in culinary competitions.
• Join a team that is passionate about creating memorable dining experiences and pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation.