Job Summary
Hospitality and Outdoor – New Vacancy – Senior Pastry Chef Luxury Safari Lodge - Pongola, KZN A prestigious luxury safari lodge in Pongola, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking an experienced Senior Pastry Chef to join their culinary team. This is an exciting opportunity in the hospitality industry to lead the pastry section of a high-end Big 5 lodge, creating exceptional desserts, artisan breads, and baked goods for international guests. The successful candidate will develop innovative dessert menus, maintain five-star quality, and contribute to an unforgettable luxury guest experience in South Africa. Requirements: · Proven experience as a Pastry Chef in a luxury lodge, five-star hotel, or fine dining environment · Formal culinary qualification (Pastry specialisation advantageous) · Expertise in artisan breads, plated desserts, and contemporary pastry techniques · Knowledge of food cost control, inventory management, and waste reduction · Strong leadership and mentorship skills for junior pastry staff · Knowledge of South African hygiene, food safety, and health regulations · Ability to work efficiently under pressure in a fast-paced luxury hospitality setting · Flexible to work weekends, public holidays, and long hours as required Responsibilities: · Prepare, bake, and present pastries, breads, desserts, and confectionery to five-star lodge standards · Develop new dessert concepts, seasonal menus, and specialty offerings in collaboration with the Executive Chef · Ensure consistency, portion control, and adherence to recipes and plating standards · Supervise, mentor, and develop junior pastry staff · Monitor inventory, manage food costs, and minimise wastage · Maintain cleanliness, organisation, and proper storage of ingredients and equipment · Contribute to the overall guest experience by ensuring all desserts reflect the lodge’s luxury brand · Collaborate with the culinary team on special events, banquets, and private dining experiences Package: R35 000 – R40 000 depending on experience Live-in accommodation Start Date: ASAP