Sous Chef - High-Volume Catering Kitchen

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 270,000 - 380,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Leadership development

Diverse events

Career growth

Supportive team

Staff meals

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations and delivering high-quality food for diverse events across Gauteng. You will lead, mentor, and ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards in a fast-paced setting.

The ideal candidate has 4–6 years of progressive kitchen experience, including at least 2 years in a Sous Chef or senior role, and a passion for culinary excellence.

Qualifications

• Culinary qualification or equivalent experience.
• 4–6 years as a Chef with at least 2 years in a Sous Chef or senior role.
• Proven ability to manage kitchen staff and operations.
• Strong cooking techniques, food safety and cost control.
• Excellent organization and time management.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing demands.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for culinary excellence.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations, including food prep, cooking and presentation.
• Supervise and mentor junior chefs and kitchen staff.
• Manage inventory levels, place orders for ingredients, control food costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Contribute to menu planning and development, including specials.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and safety for staff.
• Handle dish prep and execution during busy service periods.
• Conduct regular quality checks on all food items before serving.
• Assist with staff scheduling and performance management.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen management

Staff supervision

Cost control

Food safety

Time management

Communication

Education

Culinary qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading catering company serving the diverse needs of the Soweto community and beyond, is seeking a skilled and motivated Sous Chef to join their bustling kitchen team. This role is essential in supporting the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations, ensuring the efficient production of high-quality food for a wide range of events and services. The ideal candidate will possess strong culinary skills, excellent leadership qualities, and the ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment. You will be involved in menu preparation, staff supervision, inventory management, and maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and safety. This is a fantastic opportunity for a chef looking to advance their career within a dynamic and reputable catering organization in Gauteng ,contributing to memorable culinary experiences for a broad client base.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation.
• Supervise and mentor junior chefs and kitchen staff, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and to standard.
• Manage inventory levels, place orders for ingredients, and control food costs effectively.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations.
• Contribute to menu planning and development, including creating specials.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure a safe working environment for all staff.
• Handle preparation and execution of dishes during busy service periods.
• Conduct regular quality checks on all food items before they are served.
• Assist with staff scheduling and performance management.

Requirements

• A culinary qualification or equivalent professional experience is required.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of progressive experience as a Chef, with at least 2 years in a Sous Chef or senior Chef de Partie role.
• Proven ability in managing kitchen staff and operations.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and cost control.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing demands.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to work varied hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• A passion for food and commitment to culinary excellence.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to develop leadership skills in a busy catering environment.
• Work with a diverse range of events and clients in Gauteng .
• Professional growth and career advancement opportunities.
• Supportive team culture and management.
• Staff meals and uniform provided.