Sous chef - Braai and Grill Specialist
Job Description:
1. Kitchen Leadership & Operations
- Assist the Head Chef with the daily management and smooth operation of the kitchen.
- Supervise and coordinate kitchen staff, particularly the braai, grill and meat preparation stations.
- Assist with menu planning, recipe development, food costing and portion control.
- Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented according to established quality standards.
- Act as the Head Chef in their absence when required.
- Train, mentor and develop junior kitchen staff on cooking techniques, food preparation and kitchen procedures.
- Coordinate kitchen activities during busy service periods and large-scale events.
2. Braai & Grill Specialisation
- Take responsibility for the preparation and cooking of meat across the braai and grill stations.
- Demonstrate expert knowledge of preparing, seasoning and cooking beef, lamb, pork, chicken, game meat and wors.
- Master various cooking methods, including open-flame braai, charcoal braai, gas grill, Weber and spit braai.
- Manage grilling temperatures and cooking times to achieve consistent quality, tenderness and flavour.
- Oversee meat ageing, preparation, butchery, portioning and marinating processes.
- Prepare and execute large-scale braais and specialised meat menus for guests and events.
- Ensure correct cooking temperatures and food-safety standards are maintained at all times.
- Assist with the development of signature braai and grill dishes.
3. Food Quality & Presentation
- Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, taste, presentation and portion control.
- Inspect meat and other ingredients to ensure freshness and quality.
- Ensure all food is prepared according to recipes, specifications and guest expectations.
- Monitor wastage and implement measures to minimise food costs.
- Provide input into menu improvements and new braai/grill offerings.
4. Hygiene, Health & Safety
- Maintain excellent standards of kitchen hygiene, cleanliness and sanitation.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, occupational health and safety requirements.
- Ensure correct storage, handling and temperature control of meat and other food products.
- Monitor cleaning schedules and ensure kitchen equipment is properly maintained and sanitised.
- Promote safe working practices among all kitchen staff.
5. Event & Guest Service
- Assist in planning and executing large-scale braais, lodge functions, weddings, conferences and other catered events.
- Coordinate preparation and service requirements for high-volume functions.
- Work closely with the Head Chef and front-of-house team to ensure efficient service.
- Respond professionally to guest feedback and special dietary or meal requests.
- Maintain a high level of professionalism when interacting with guests.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
- Culinary Diploma, Certificate or equivalent professional culinary qualification.
- Minimum 3–5 years' experience as a Sous Chef, Senior Chef or equivalent kitchen leadership position.
- At least 2 years' proven experience specialising in braai, grilling or open-fire cooking.
- Proven experience with beef, lamb, pork, chicken, game and other meat products.
- Experience in a lodge, hotel, restaurant or hospitality environment.
- Experience in event catering and large-scale braais.
- Strong knowledge of meat preparation, ageing, butchery, marinating and portion control.
- Knowledge of food safety, hygiene and health & safety requirements.
- Strong leadership, communication and team-management skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and maintain high standards during busy service periods.
KEY COMPETENCIES
Braai & Grill Expertise | Meat Preparation | Kitchen Leadership | Menu Planning | Food Costing | Team Supervision | Food Safety | Quality Control | Event Catering | Time Management | Communication | Attention to Detail
closing date: 22-09-2026