Sous Chef - Fine Dining Catering

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniform provided

Equipment supplied

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Sous Chef for a prestigious fine dining catering operation in Pretoria, Gauteng. The role involves kitchen leadership, menu development, and close collaboration with the Head Chef to deliver exceptional events.

You will supervise junior staff, uphold top hygiene standards, and contribute to costed menus while maintaining high-quality execution during busy services and events.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4–5 years in fine dining or high-end catering kitchens.
• 2+ years in a supervisory role such as Senior CDP or Junior Sous Chef.
• Proficient in classical and modern cooking techniques and plating.
• Strong food safety and hygiene knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Chef in all kitchen management and operations.
• Supervise and mentor junior staff; ensure recipes and standards are followed.
• Prepare and cook high-quality dishes during service and events.
• Maintain hygiene, sanitation, and inventory control.
• Contribute to menu development and costing; manage stock rotation.

Skills

Fine dining experience

Supervisory experience

Leadership

Food safety

Menu planning

Costing

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious fine dining catering service operating in **Pretoria, Gauteng**, is looking for a highly motivated and experienced Sous Chef to join their elite culinary team. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to the creation and execution of sophisticated menus for exclusive events, working alongside a team of passionate professionals dedicated to culinary excellence. The Sous Chef will play a critical role in kitchen management, supervising junior staff, ensuring consistent food quality, and assisting the Head Chef with daily operations. This position is ideal for a chef with a strong foundation in fine dining techniques and a desire to excel in a demanding yet rewarding environment. The role is situated in **Pretoria, Gauteng**, requiring consistent on-site presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in all aspects of kitchen management and operations.
• Supervise and mentor junior chefs and kitchen staff, ensuring adherence to recipes and standards.
• Prepare and cook high-quality dishes, particularly during busy service periods and events.
• Maintain impeccable standards of hygiene, food safety, and sanitation in the kitchen.
• Manage inventory, ordering, and stock rotation for specific sections or as directed.
• Contribute to menu development, including recipe creation and costing.
• Ensure efficient workflow and timely preparation of all menu items.
• Implement and enforce kitchen policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with the Head Chef and front-of-house management to ensure client satisfaction.
• Deputize for the Head Chef in their absence.

Requirements

• A recognized culinary qualification or equivalent extensive experience.
• Minimum of 4-5 years of experience in a fine dining or high-end catering kitchen, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role (e.g., Senior Chef de Partie, Junior Sous Chef).
• Proficiency in classical and modern cooking techniques and plating.
• Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene protocols.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Passion for culinary arts and commitment to delivering exceptional quality.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.
• Experience with menu planning and costing is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work in a prestigious fine dining catering environment.
• Gain experience with high-profile clients and events.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• A supportive and dynamic team culture.
• Uniform and necessary equipment provided.