About Company
Blue Mountain Inn is a cherished landmark in Teyateyaneng, Lesotho, offering a warm and inviting escape with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For decades, we have been dedicated to providing our guests with an unforgettable experience, combining traditional Basotho hospitality with modern comforts. Our establishment features comfortable accommodation, versatile conference facilities, and a renowned restaurant that is the heart of our culinary offerings. We pride ourselves on sourcing fresh, local ingredients whenever possible to create dishes that celebrate the rich flavours of Lesotho, alongside popular international cuisine. At Blue Mountain Inn, we believe in fostering a supportive and professional environment where every team member is valued, encouraged to grow, and plays a crucial role in delivering exceptional service. Join our passionate team and contribute to a legacy of excellence in hospitality, right here in the scenic Berea District.
Job Description
Are you a culinary artist with a passion for creating memorable dining experiences? Blue Mountain Inn is actively seeking a talented and dedicated Chef to join our vibrant kitchen team in Mokema, Teyateyaneng. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to showcase their creativity, leadership, and technical skills in a dynamic hotel restaurant setting. As our Chef, you will be instrumental in elevating our culinary reputation, contributing to menu development, ensuring the highest standards of food preparation, and leading kitchen operations. We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, possesses a strong understanding of diverse cuisines, and is committed to delivering consistent quality. Your role will involve overseeing daily kitchen activities, managing food inventory, maintaining impeccable hygiene, and inspiring junior kitchen staff. If you are ready to bring your expertise to a place where your culinary vision can flourish and make a tangible impact on guest satisfaction, we invite you to become a vital part of the Blue Mountain Inn family. We value innovation, teamwork, and a genuine love for food. This full-time position demands commitment, adaptability, and a proactive approach to kitchen management and culinary excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation, ensuring high-quality standards are consistently met.
- Develop and update innovative menus that reflect seasonal availability, guest preferences, and incorporate authentic local Basotho flavours alongside international dishes.
- Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards in line with local regulations and international best practices, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen.
- Manage food inventory efficiently, control costs, and minimize waste without compromising on the quality and freshness of ingredients.
- Train, mentor, and supervise kitchen staff, fostering a positive, productive, and respectful work environment that encourages growth and skill development.
- Oversee the proper handling, storage, and rotation of all food products to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
- Collaborate closely with the restaurant management team to ensure smooth service delivery, efficient kitchen-to-front-of-house communication, and exceptional guest dining experiences.
- Perform regular maintenance checks on kitchen equipment and promptly report any repair or replacement needs to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
- Handle special dietary requests with precision and ensure accurate allergen information is available to front-of-house staff and guests.
- Monitor food portioning and presentation to maintain consistency and aesthetic appeal of all dishes served.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (minimum 3 years) as a Chef or Head Cook in a reputable hotel, restaurant, or catering establishment.
- Strong culinary skills across various cuisines, with a demonstrated ability to work with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal abilities to inspire and guide kitchen staff.
- In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, HACCP principles, and best practices in kitchen hygiene and sanitation.
- Ability to work efficiently, remain calm, and maintain quality under pressure in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment.
- Creative flair and a genuine passion for food innovation, menu development, and delivering outstanding culinary experiences.
- Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification from a recognized institution.
- Experience with menu costing, inventory management software, and kitchen budgeting.
- Familiarity with traditional Basotho cuisine and the ability to incorporate local ingredients creatively.
- Current First Aid and HACCP certification.
- Proficiency in basic computer applications for kitchen management tasks.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive monthly salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development, culinary training, and skill enhancement.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment where your creativity and contributions are valued.
- Complimentary staff meals provided during working shifts.
- The unique opportunity to work in a beautiful natural setting with breathtaking mountain views in the heart of Lesotho.
- Contribution to a well-established and respected hospitality brand with a strong community presence.
- Potential for career advancement within our growing establishment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their comprehensive CV, a detailed cover letter outlining their experience, culinary philosophy, and passion for this role, along with professional references. Please click the link below to submit your application directly. We are eager to discover how your unique talents can enhance the culinary journey at Blue Mountain Inn and look forward to welcoming a new culinary leader to our dedicated team.