About Company
Maliba Mountain Lodge is Lesotho’s first 5-star lodge, nestled deep within the stunning Ts’ehlanyane National Park, a pristine wilderness area in the majestic Maluti Mountains. We offer an unrivaled luxury escape, combining exquisite hospitality with breathtaking natural beauty. Our lodge is renowned for its commitment to exceptional guest experiences, sustainable tourism, and celebrating the rich culture of Lesotho. We pride ourselves on our fine dining restaurant, which showcases a blend of international cuisine and traditional Basotho flavours, crafted with passion and the freshest local ingredients. Joining Maliba means becoming part of a dedicated team that is passionate about creating unforgettable moments for our guests and contributing to the conservation of Lesotho’s natural heritage.
Job Description
Are you a culinary enthusiast with a passion for creating unforgettable dining experiences amidst breathtaking mountain scenery? Maliba Mountain Lodge, Lesotho’s premier 5-star mountain retreat nestled in the pristine Ts’ehlanyane National Park, is seeking a talented and dedicated Cook to join our vibrant kitchen team. We pride ourselves on offering a unique blend of luxury and natural beauty, providing our guests with exquisite cuisine that complements their extraordinary stay. As a Cook at Maliba, you will be an essential ingredient in delivering our promise of exceptional hospitality. You will play a crucial role in preparing a diverse range of dishes, from traditional Basotho delicacies to international gourmet meals, all crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
This is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to hone your culinary skills, innovate with new recipes, and contribute to a team that values creativity, precision, and passion. We are looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, possesses a keen eye for detail, and is committed to maintaining the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and hygiene. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and procedures, and be capable of working efficiently both independently and as part of a collaborative kitchen brigade. You will work closely with our Head Chef and other kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations, timely service, and consistent quality across all meal periods – breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Your creativity will be encouraged as you contribute to menu development, helping us to continually surprise and delight our discerning guests. If you are ready to bring your culinary artistry to a place where every meal is an experience and every guest leaves delighted, then we invite you to apply. Join us in crafting memorable moments, one delicious dish at a time, high up in the majestic Maluti Mountains, making Maliba Mountain Lodge an unrivaled culinary destination.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook a variety of dishes according to recipes and Maliba Mountain Lodge standards, ensuring high quality and consistency.
- Assist the Head Chef in menu planning, food preparation, and ensuring efficient kitchen operations.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment, adhering strictly to food safety and hygiene regulations.
- Manage inventory and stock rotation of ingredients, minimizing waste and ensuring freshness.
- Operate and maintain kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
- Collaborate effectively with other kitchen staff and front-of-house team to ensure smooth service flow.
- Contribute to a positive and professional kitchen atmosphere.
- Adapt to guest dietary requirements and preferences as needed, ensuring a bespoke dining experience.
- Monitor food portions and presentation to maintain high standards for all plated dishes.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Cook in a restaurant, hotel, or lodge setting.
- Solid understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and procedures.
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations (HACCP or similar).
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality dishes.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Flexibility to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Physical stamina to stand for long periods and lift heavy items.
Preferred Qualifications
- Culinary diploma or equivalent certification from a recognized institution.
- Experience working in a 4- or 5-star hospitality environment.
- Familiarity with traditional Basotho cuisine and international culinary trends.
- Proficiency in basic computer skills for inventory management.
- First Aid and CPR certification.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Opportunity for professional growth and culinary skill development.
- On-site staff accommodation (if required) and delicious daily meals.
- Working in a unique and breathtaking natural environment within Ts’ehlanyane National Park.
- Access to staff recreational facilities.
- Contribution to a highly respected and sustainable tourism operation.
- Friendly and supportive team environment.
How to Apply
If you are a passionate and skilled Cook ready to elevate your career within a prestigious lodge, we encourage you to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your detailed CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you believe you are the perfect fit for Maliba Mountain Lodge. We look forward to hearing from you!