Sous Chef - Fine Dining & Events

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Statutory benefits

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo seeks an experienced Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in kitchen operations, menu development, and team leadership. You will oversee restaurant and events kitchens, ensuring exceptional food quality and presentation.

Ideal candidates bring strong classical and modern techniques, excellent organizational skills, and a passion for culinary excellence in a demanding yet rewarding environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Chef de Partie or Sous Chef in fine dining or high-volume catering.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Proficiency in a wide range of culinary techniques and cuisines.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and HACCP principles.
• Experience with inventory management and cost control.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Passion for culinary excellence and a strong work ethic.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays for events in Polokwane.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in daily kitchen operations, including food prep, cooking, and plating.
• Oversee kitchen staff in the Head Chef's absence and maintain workflow.
• Contribute to menu planning, recipe development, and costing for restaurant and events.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, taste, and presentation.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations.
• Manage inventory, ordering, receiving, storing, and waste minimization.
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff and foster a positive team environment.
• Collaborate with front-of-house to ensure seamless service.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Communication

Organizational skills

Food safety HACCP

Education

Formal culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an exclusive fine dining restaurant with a robust events division in Polokwane, Limpopo , is looking for a highly skilled and motivated Sous Chef. This is a critical support role, assisting the Head Chef in all aspects of kitchen operations, menu development, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in classical and modern culinary techniques, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to maintain high standards of food quality and presentation. You will be instrumental in ensuring the smooth running of both the restaurant and event kitchens, contributing to the establishment's reputation for culinary excellence. This is a prime opportunity to advance your career in a demanding yet rewarding environment in Polokwane , working closely with a celebrated culinary team.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating.
• Oversee kitchen staff in the absence of the Head Chef, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to standards.
• Contribute to menu planning, recipe development, and costing for both restaurant and event services.
• Maintain rigorous standards of food quality, taste, and presentation.
• Ensure strict compliance with all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations.
• Manage inventory control, including ordering, receiving, and storing ingredients, and minimizing waste.
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive team environment.
• Collaborate with the front-of-house team to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure a clean and organized work environment.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Chef de Partie or Sous Chef in a reputable fine dining or high-volume catering establishment.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Proficiency in a wide range of culinary techniques and cuisines.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and HACCP principles.
• Experience with inventory management and cost control.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing demands in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Must possess a passion for culinary excellence and a strong work ethic.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required for events in Polokwane .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including potential performance bonuses and statutory benefits. This role provides an excellent platform for career growth within a respected culinary establishment, with opportunities to learn from experienced chefs and contribute to exciting projects in Polokwane, Limpopo . Join a dedicated team committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences.