Sous Chef - Kitchen Management

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health insurance

Staff meals

Employee discount

Development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in Pretoria, driving day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring top-quality food, and guiding the kitchen team. Lead menu planning, recipe execution, and cost controls to uphold the restaurant’s culinary standards.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in professional kitchens with supervisory exposure, strong leadership, and excellent communication.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of professional kitchen experience, including 2+ years in a supervisory role.
• Strong culinary skills across cuisines and methods.
• Proven leadership and effective team motivation.
• Experience with inventory management, food costing and waste reduction.
• Culinary qualification or apprenticeship preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Chef with menu planning and recipe development.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations and peak-hour service.
• Mentor junior chefs and kitchen staff.
• Manage inventory, stock rotation, and ingredient orders.
• Maintain hygiene and safety standards; act as Head Chef when needed.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Culinary skills

Communication

Pressure management

Education

Culinary qualification

Tools

Inventory management systems

Food costing tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished and dedicated Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in managing a bustling kitchen environment in Pretoria . This is a critical leadership role, responsible for assisting in all daily kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food preparation, quality control, and team supervision. The ideal candidate will be adept at multitasking, possess strong culinary skills across various cuisines, and demonstrate excellent leadership qualities to motivate and guide the kitchen brigade. You will play a key role in maintaining the restaurant's reputation for culinary excellence, managing inventory, and ensuring efficient workflow from prep to plate.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in menu planning, recipe development, and execution of all dishes served.


• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and ensuring timely service during peak hours.


• Supervise and mentor junior chefs and kitchen staff, providing training and guidance on culinary techniques and standards.


• Manage inventory, stock rotation, and ordering of ingredients, ensuring optimal quality and cost-effectiveness.


• Maintain rigorous standards of hygiene, sanitation, and safety in the kitchen, adhering to all relevant regulations.


• Step in as acting Head Chef in the Head Chef's absence, ensuring seamless kitchen operations.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in professional kitchen environments, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role (e.g., Sous Chef, Senior Chef de Partie).


• Strong culinary skills and a comprehensive understanding of various cooking methods and cuisines.


• Proven leadership abilities and excellent communication skills to effectively manage and motivate a team.


• Proficiency in inventory management, food costing, and waste reduction techniques.


• A relevant culinary qualification or apprenticeship is highly regarded.


• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and commit to flexible working hours in Pretoria.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.


• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.


• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the culinary field.


• Staff meals and a generous employee discount at the establishment.


• A dynamic and challenging work environment that rewards dedication and skill.