Job Summary
?????? ???? – ??????: ?????????, ??????? Safari JOBS is currently recruiting for a Junior Chef to join the pre-opening team of a renowned 5* game lodge, scheduled to open in 2027. Set within the scenic northern reaches of Limpopo, yet still only approximately 3.5 hours from Gauteng, this is a rare opportunity to become part of an exciting lodge journey from the ground up. The property is currently undergoing an extensive remodelling phase, and the successful candidate will be required to ????? ?? ???? ?? ???????? to support pre-opening operations. During the initial phase, the workload will be approximately 40–50% of full operational capacity, with the primary focus on cooking staff meals prepared twice daily. This opportunity is well suited to a junior chef / Commis / CDP or recent culinary school graduate seeking hands-on experience, who is happy to begin with staff meals, work within a supportive team, and grow into a full lodge kitchen role over time. ??????? ???????????? ??? ???????????? Clear criminal record; Excellent employment track record – references will be checked; Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal; Matric / Senior school leaver’s certificate; Formal culinary qualification (certificate or diploma); Formal practical experience in a professional kitchen environment (hospitality, lodge, or restaurant preferred); Valid driver’s licence – (?????????); Knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen best practices; Ability to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays; Strong time management and organizational skills; Passion for food, hospitality, and guest service; ????????? ???????? Own transport – preferably 2x4 / 4x4 Basic computer literacy/experience/understanding; Existing experience in an upmarket lodge environment / understanding of 5* lodge operational standards ??? ???????????????? ???? ???? ???? ?????? ?? ??? ????????????? ??????????? ???? ??????????? ?? ??????? ????? - ????? ? - ??????????? ????? Prepare nutritious, well-balanced staff meals twice daily in line with set menus and budget guidelines; Assist with basic menu planning for staff meals, taking into account dietary requirements and operational needs; Ensure the kitchen and food preparation areas are kept clean, organised, and hygienic at all times, in line with health and safety standards; Follow standard recipes, instructions, and portion control to maintain consistency; Assist with basic stock control, including receiving / collecting deliveries, correct storage, and minimising waste; Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and personal presentation; Work closely with senior kitchen or management team members during the pre-opening phase; Support the setup and organisation of the kitchen in preparation for full lodge operations; Demonstrate a willingness to learn, take instruction, and grow into a lodge kitchen role once guest operations commence ????? ? - ??????? ????? Assist with the preparation, cooking, and presentation of meals according to set menus and standards; Ensure consistent food quality, portion control, and plating; Maintain high hygiene and food safety standards in line with health regulations; Assist with stock control, stock rotation, and minimizing food waste; Support the Senior Chef/s with menu preparation and daily kitchen operations; Keep kitchen areas, equipment, and storage areas clean and organized; Follow all health, safety, and company policies; Work efficiently under pressure, especially during busy service periods; Contribute to a positive team environment and maintain professional conduct ???????????? / ??????? / ???? ????? Negotiable gross salary NEG. DOE & qualifications etc ?????? ?????? ???? ????? ?????? ??????????? ???? ???????????. (???? ?????????? ??? ???? & ???) Split of pooled monthly gratuities once lodge becomes operational; Accommodation: Own private room and bathroom; Uniform; Utilities including water, electricity and Wi-Fi; Two meals provided per day, when on duty; Staff transport to the nearest main town, approx. 40 minutes away, can be arranged when required, at a cost of R300.00 per one-way trip. Kindly note that laundry, medical aid, provident fund, and any other personal expenses are for the employee’s own account. Work/leave cycle: 7 consecutive days off per month, plus 15 leave days per annum. ????? ?? ???? Must have access to Zoom for the initial interview; Must be willing to potentially complete a character and personality assessment during the interview stage; Must be willing to potentially undergo a polygraph examination prior to final appointment. This is unfortunately not a family or pet friendly position. ?? ?? ????? ???: You MUST be in possession of a valid passport & existing work permit for RSA/ ??????????? ??????? Please submit an ??-??-???? ???? ??, a recent ????-???-????????? ??????????, copies of relevant ?????????????? and certificates, and contactable references for your ???? ????? ?????, ?????????, ?? ????????? ?????????? ???????????. Written reference letters may be included if available. ????? ??? ???? ?? ?????? ??????? ? ??????? ???? ?????????, ?? ??? ???? ??????? ???????? ??????, ???? ???? ???? ?????????? ???????. ????? ??????? ????: Your Name & Surname + JOB ID CODE (SJ…) We sincerely value every application submitted. While only shortlisted candidates who meet the role requirements will be contacted, you are most welcome to follow our advertising & social media platforms for future opportunities that may better align with your profile.