Food Service Assistant

About the Role

• We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Kitchen Assistant to support the day-to-day operations of our catering services. The successful candidate will assist with food preparation, stock management, customer service, and maintaining the highest standards of food safety and hygiene. This role is ideal for an individual who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and is committed to delivering quality service to our clients and customers.

What You Will Bring

• Grade 12 Matric or equivalent qualification.
• A Food Preparation, Hospitality or Catering qualification will be advantageous.
• 1–2 years' experience in a commercial kitchen, canteen, catering or hospitality environment.
• Basic knowledge of food preparation techniques.
• Understanding of food safety, hygiene and sanitation standards.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Customer-focused with a positive attitude.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Inherent Requirements for the Position Non-Negotiable

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Physically fit and able to lift and move stock and supplies.
• Willingness to work shifts, weekends and public holidays as operationally required.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and personal hygiene.
• Reliable, punctual and trustworthy.

Additional Demonstrable Requirements

• Knowledge of HACCP principles and food safety practices.
• Experience with stock control and inventory management.
• Ability to accurately follow recipes and portion control guidelines.
• Good organisational and time management skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to follow instructions and standard operating procedures.

What You Will Be Doing

• The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the efficient operation of the kitchen by:
• Assisting the Chef with food preparation and basic cooking duties.
• Preparing ingredients by washing, peeling, cutting and portioning food items.
• Receiving, unloading and storing food deliveries and supplies.
• Organising and maintaining the storeroom to ensure stock is stored safely and correctly.
• Assisting with stock rotation using First-In, First-Out FIFO principles.
• Monitoring stock levels and reporting shortages to the Chef or Supervisor.
• Assisting with inventory counts and stock control processes.
• Maintaining exceptional standards of cleanliness throughout the kitchen, food preparation areas and equipment.
• Ensuring compliance with all food safety, health, hygiene and sanitation regulations.
• Cleaning kitchen utensils, equipment, workstations and food service areas.
• Assisting with portion control to minimise waste and ensure consistency.
• Serving food to customers in a professional, courteous and friendly manner.
• Providing excellent customer service and responding to customer requests professionally.
• Assisting with kitchen opening and closing procedures.
• Ensuring all waste is disposed of safely and in accordance with company procedures.
• Reporting damaged equipment, maintenance requirements or food safety concerns to management.
• Complying with all company policies, health and safety standards and operational procedures.
• Performing any other reasonable duties as required by management to support the catering operation.