Sous Chef - High-Volume Catering

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Cape Winelands location

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Sous Chef for an on-site role in Paarl, Western Cape. You will work with the Executive Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, ensure top-quality food, and help develop menus for large events and corporate functions.

The ideal candidate has at least 5 years of experience in high-volume catering, strong leadership, and a passion for culinary excellence. You must be able to work under pressure, manage staff, and maintain compliance with hygiene standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years as a Chef or Sous Chef in high-volume catering.
• Proficient in a wide range of cooking techniques and culinary disciplines.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and health regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Experience with inventory management, ordering and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations and food prep.
• Supervise and mentor junior kitchen staff to ensure high standards.
• Maintain strict adherence to food safety, sanitation and hygiene rules.
• Manage inventory, ordering, receiving and proper storage of ingredients.
• Contribute to menu planning and development for client requirements.
• Monitor food costs, waste, and kitchen expenses.
• Ensure consistent food quality and presentation across events.
• Schedule staff shifts and manage labour efficiently.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections and implement corrective actions.
• Address any immediate issues during service or prep.

Skills

Sous Chef exp

High-volume catering

Food safety

Menu development

Inventory management

Leadership

Staff supervision

Shift planning

Cost control

Education

Culinary certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading and reputable catering service provider in the Paarl region, specializing in large-scale events, weddings, and corporate functions. We are seeking a skilled and motivated Sous Chef to join our dedicated culinary team. This is a vital on-site role where you will work closely with the Executive Chef to manage daily kitchen operations, ensure consistent food quality, and contribute to menu development. The Sous Chef will play a key role in overseeing food preparation, managing kitchen staff, maintaining inventory, and upholding the highest standards of hygiene and safety. The position requires a strong foundation in culinary techniques, excellent leadership abilities, and a passion for delivering exceptional food experiences within a demanding, high-volume catering environment. Located in the scenic Paarl valley, this role offers a fantastic opportunity to grow your career within a respected organization in the Western Cape's vibrant hospitality sector. The ideal candidate is a team player, adept at problem-solving, and committed to culinary excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in overseeing all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation.
• Supervise and mentor junior kitchen staff, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and to high standards.
• Maintain strict adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations.
• Manage inventory levels, including ordering, receiving, and proper storage of ingredients and supplies.
• Contribute to menu planning and development, creating innovative dishes that align with client requirements and culinary trends.
• Monitor and control food costs, waste reduction, and overall kitchen expenses.
• Ensure consistency in food quality and presentation across all catering events.
• Schedule kitchen staff shifts and manage labor effectively.
• Conduct regular kitchen inspections and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Handle any immediate issues or challenges that arise in the kitchen during service or preparation.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Chef or Sous Chef, preferably in a high-volume catering or large-scale food service environment.
• Proven proficiency in a wide range of cooking techniques and culinary disciplines.
• Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation standards, and health regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Experience with inventory management, ordering, and cost control.
• A passion for food, creativity, and a commitment to culinary excellence.
• Must be physically fit and able to stand for extended periods and lift moderate weight.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by the catering schedule.
• Culinary certification or a relevant qualification is advantageous.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. You will have the opportunity to work with a renowned catering company, contribute to exciting events, and develop your culinary skills in a supportive environment located in the beautiful Cape Winelands . Enjoy career growth and the chance to be part of a dedicated team focused on delivering outstanding catering services in the Western Cape .