About Company
Makhunoane Lodge is a cherished and locally-owned hospitality establishment nestled in the breathtaking, serene landscapes of the Qacha’s Nek district in Lesotho. We pride ourselves on offering guests an authentic Basotho experience, complete with comfortable, well-appointed accommodation, panoramic views, and warm, personalized service that reflects the genuine spirit of our community. Our culinary offerings are a cornerstone of the exceptional guest experience we provide, ranging from exquisitely prepared traditional Basotho dishes that celebrate local heritage to international favourites designed to delight diverse palates. We frequently cater to various events, group bookings, and special occasions, making our kitchen a vibrant hub of activity and creativity. Makhunoane Lodge is deeply committed to sustainable tourism, environmental stewardship, and community upliftment, fostering a supportive and welcoming environment for both our valued guests and our dedicated team members. Join us and become part of a family that values passion, quality, and genuine hospitality.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated, creative, and experienced Catering Cook to join our esteemed team at Makhunoane Lodge. This is an incredible opportunity for a culinary professional passionate about delivering exceptional food experiences in a unique, natural setting. The Catering Cook will be instrumental in preparing delicious, high-quality meals for our lodge guests, as well as managing the culinary requirements for various catering events, conferences, and special functions hosted at our lodge.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in diverse cooking techniques, an unwavering commitment to food safety and hygiene standards, and the ability to work efficiently and creatively both independently and as part of a team. You will be responsible for developing innovative and appealing menu options that showcase both local Basotho flavours and international cuisine, ensuring a delightful and memorable dining experience for all our patrons.
This role demands not only culinary excellence but also strong organizational skills, including inventory management, cost control, and efficient kitchen operations. You will oversee the cleanliness and maintenance of the kitchen area and equipment, adhering strictly to all health and safety regulations. The Catering Cook will work closely with the lodge management and front-of-house staff to coordinate seamless meal service, respond to guest feedback, and continuously strive for excellence in food quality and presentation. If you are a hands-on cook with a flair for creativity, a meticulous eye for detail, and a desire to contribute to an outstanding guest journey in the heart of Lesotho, we encourage you to apply. This position offers a chance to grow professionally within a supportive environment while embracing the beauty and culture of Qacha’s Nek.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook a wide range of dishes, encompassing both Basotho traditional meals and international cuisine, for lodge guests and catering events.
- Develop and implement creative and appealing menu options, considering seasonal ingredients, dietary restrictions, and guest preferences.
- Ensure all food preparation, cooking, and storage processes adhere strictly to local and international health, safety, and hygiene regulations.
- Manage kitchen inventory effectively, including ordering supplies, receiving deliveries, and minimizing waste to maintain cost efficiency.
- Oversee and maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and organization within the kitchen area and all cooking equipment.
- Collaborate proactively with lodge management and front-of-house staff to coordinate meal service, manage timelines, and address guest feedback promptly.
- Assist in training and mentoring junior kitchen staff, fostering a positive, productive, and respectful work environment.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (minimum 2 years) as a Cook or Chef, particularly within catering, hospitality, or a lodge/restaurant setting.
- Strong knowledge of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and kitchen procedures.
- Excellent understanding and practical application of food safety standards (e.g., HACCP principles).
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a dynamic, fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Demonstrated creativity in menu planning, recipe development, and food presentation.
- Exceptional communication skills and a strong commitment to teamwork.
- Physical stamina and dexterity required for prolonged standing, lifting, and repetitive tasks.
Preferred Qualifications
- Culinary degree or relevant professional certification from a recognized culinary institution.
- Previous experience working in a lodge or hotel environment within Southern Africa.
- Familiarity with Basotho traditional cuisine and a passion for utilizing local ingredients.
- Ability to lead and manage a small kitchen team efficiently.
- Possession of current First Aid and Food Hygiene Certificates.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive monthly salary.
- Comfortable on-site accommodation provided.
- Daily meals included during working hours.
- Opportunity to live and work in the beautiful and culturally rich Qacha’s Nek district.
- Professional development and career growth opportunities within a growing hospitality establishment.
- Engaging and supportive work environment where your culinary talents are valued.
- Contribution to local tourism and community development initiatives.
How to Apply
To seize this exciting opportunity and become our next Catering Cook, please ensure you click on the application link below to submit your resume and cover letter. We look forward to receiving your application!