Sous Chef - Fine Dining Events

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship from Head Chef

Staff meals provided

Medical aid contribution

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Sous Chef to join a prestigious fine dining catering team in Richards Bay. You will work with the Head Chef to manage kitchen operations, mentor staff, and ensure flawless food quality and presentation for high-end events.

The ideal candidate will have 3–5 years in a similar role, formal culinary qualifications, and a track record in classical and modern techniques. Availability for flexible shifts is required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years as Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Proven expertise in classical and contemporary cooking techniques.
• Strong leadership and team management.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety and HACCP principles.
• Ability to work under pressure during peak events.
• Clear communication and keen eye for plated detail.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and holidays for events.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in managing all kitchen operations and plating for catered events in Richards Bay.
• Mentor junior kitchen staff and uphold high performance and recipe adherence.
• Control food quality, consistency, and presentation across menus.
• Contribute to menu planning, recipe development, and costing.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Manage inventory, stock rotation, and ingredient orders to minimize waste.
• Monitor equipment and coordinate maintenance as needed.
• Support training of new kitchen team members.

Skills

Leadership

HACCP / food safety

Time management

Communication

Menu development

Education

Formal culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role Our client, a highly acclaimed fine dining catering establishment located in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking an ambitious and skilled Sous Chef to join their elite culinary team. This role offers an exceptional opportunity for a chef with a passion for exquisite cuisine and a talent for executing sophisticated dishes in a high-pressure catering environment. You will work closely with the Head Chef to manage kitchen operations, maintain impeccable standards of food quality and presentation, and contribute to menu innovation. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical skills, a keen eye for detail, and a dedication to excellence. This position is perfect for a chef looking to advance their career in a prestigious setting, contributing to memorable culinary experiences for discerning clients in the Richards Bay area.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in managing all aspects of the kitchen, including food preparation, cooking, and plating for catered events in Richards Bay.
• Supervise and mentor junior kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of performance and adherence to recipes.
• Maintain strict control over food quality, consistency, and presentation of all dishes.
• Assist in menu planning, recipe development, and costing for new and existing offerings.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations within the kitchen.
• Manage inventory, stock rotation, and ordering of ingredients to minimize waste and control costs.
• Conduct regular checks on kitchen equipment and report any maintenance needs.
• Support the Head Chef in training new kitchen team members.
• Contribute to maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment.
• Step in as the acting Head Chef in their absence.

Requirements

• A minimum of 3-5 years of experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie in a reputable fine dining or high-end catering establishment.
• Formal culinary qualification from a recognized institution.
• Proven experience in classical and contemporary cooking techniques.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene standards, including HACCP principles.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and manage time effectively during peak service periods in KwaZulu-Natal.
• A keen eye for detail in food presentation and plating.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by event schedules in Richards Bay.
• A passion for culinary excellence and a creative approach to food.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• Opportunity to work in a fine dining catering environment.
• Mentorship from an experienced Head Chef.
• Exposure to high-profile events and clientele.
• Staff meals provided during shifts.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• Contribution towards a medical aid plan.