Pastry Sous Chef – Somerset West

About the role

A confidential employer in Somerset West is hiring a Pastry Sous Chef through ShiftMate, a trial-to-hire platform. The position pays R16 000 per month and starts on 1 December 2026. Candidates must pass a ShiftMate assessment of at least 70%. The employer's details are shared after the trial shift is confirmed.

Key responsibilities

• Support daily kitchen operations so that pastry workstations run efficiently and culinary standards are met consistently.
• Prepare, bake and present a wide range of desserts, breads, cakes, tarts, confections and chocolate work to a flawless standard.
• Supervise, guide and mentor junior pastry kitchen staff and trainees, deliver on-the-job training, monitor technique and manage kitchen morale.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on seasonal pastry menus, function options and custom desserts for events.
• Manage stock controls, minimise waste, keep par stock levels and follow a strict FIFO approach.
• Ensure compliance with food hygiene, occupational health and safety regulations and HACCP benchmarks aligned with South African statutory acts.

Required profile

• Grade 12 certificate (or equivalent) and a formal Pastry or Culinary qualification from an accredited academy.
• 1 to 2 years of experience.
• Reliable, on time, physically fit, calm under pressure and a team player.
• Good with computers and good with numbers.

Required skills

• Technical pastry: fine dining dessert plating, modern and classic baking, artisanal chocolate work.
• Ability to coordinate sudden changes to banqueting or event menus.
• Leadership and communication skills.