Sous Chef - High-Volume Event Catering

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff meals

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a skilled Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in day-to-day kitchen operations for high-volume catering events in the Western Cape. You will lead staff, refine menus, and ensure top-quality food, presentation, and service in fast-paced settings.

The ideal candidate brings 5+ years of culinary experience, strong HACCP knowledge, and proven leadership with the ability to work evenings and weekends as required by event schedules. Based in Paarl area or willing to relocate.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 2 years in a Sous Chef or similar leadership role within catering or a high-volume restaurant.
• Proven expertise in various cooking techniques and cuisines.
• Strong understanding of kitchen management, inventory control, and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety standards and HACCP principles.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Passion for food and a commitment to high-quality culinary execution.
• Flexibility to work varying shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by event schedules.
• Culinary qualifications are highly regarded.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Paarl area, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Chef in all kitchen management tasks.
• Supervise junior chefs and kitchen staff.
• Contribute to menu planning and development.
• Manage inventory and stock to control costs.
• Ensure food safety, hygiene and HACCP compliance.
• Oversee quality control of dishes.
• Maintain a clean, organized kitchen.
• Collaborate with events and front-of-house teams.
• Step in for Head Chef when needed.
• Drive culinary excellence and innovation.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team-building

Food safety (HACCP)

Ability to work under pressure

Education

Culinary qualifications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier catering service provider operating in the scenic region of Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking a skilled and passionate Sous Chef. This dynamic role involves supporting the Head Chef in the day-to-day management of the kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, preparation, and presentation for a wide array of events. You will play a key part in menu development, team leadership, and maintaining a pristine and efficient kitchen environment. The ideal candidate possesses strong culinary expertise, excellent leadership capabilities, and a commitment to excellence in a fast-paced catering setting within the beautiful Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in all aspects of kitchen management, including food preparation, cooking, and plating.
• Supervise and guide junior chefs and kitchen staff, ensuring adherence to recipes and standards.
• Contribute to menu planning and development, offering creative ideas and insights.
• Manage inventory, ordering of supplies, and maintaining stock levels to control costs and minimize waste.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations.
• Oversee the quality control of all dishes leaving the kitchen.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-equipped kitchen environment.
• Handle kitchen operations in the absence of the Head Chef.
• Collaborate with the events and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Continuously strive for culinary excellence and innovation.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 2 years in a Sous Chef or similar leadership role within catering or a high-volume restaurant.
• Proven expertise in various cooking techniques and cuisines.
• Strong understanding of kitchen management, inventory control, and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety standards and HACCP principles.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Passion for food and a commitment to high-quality culinary execution.
• Flexibility to work varying shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required by event schedules.
• Culinary qualifications are highly regarded.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Paarl area, Western Cape .

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunity to work with a respected catering company on diverse and exciting events.
• Professional growth and development opportunities.
• Exposure to creative culinary challenges in a beautiful setting.
• Be part of a dedicated and passionate culinary team in the Western Cape .
• Staff meals and potential for performance bonuses.