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1 day ago
Full-Time Cook/Chef – to be based in Harare. Position Type: Full-Time, Stay-Out.
We are a community-focused, high-impact nutritional program dedicated to providing nourishing, high-yield dietary support to vulnerable populations. We operate a high-volume central production kitchen in Harare and are seeking an energetic, technically skilled, and hands-on Lead Cook/Chef to drive our culinary operations. If you are a passionate culinary professional who thrives in a fast-paced production environment, excels at managing kitchen workflows, and wants to leverage your skills for social impact, we invite you to apply.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Catering
- Closing Date: 2026-07-21
Key Responsibilities
- 1. Large-Scale Cooking: Prepare and cook high-quality, nutritious meals ranging from 200 to 1,200 portions, 4 to 5 times a week.
- 2. Kitchen Operations & HACCP Management: Oversee daily kitchen workflows. Implement and maintain rigorous Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS), including Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles, safe food storage practices (FIFO/LIFO), temperature monitoring, and sanitization protocols.
- 3. Collaboration & Leadership: Work closely and harmoniously with a diverse team of staff and community volunteers.
- 4. All-Round Kitchen Support: Actively participate in all phases of production, including raw ingredient prep, cooking, portioning, and comprehensive sanitation of the station and equipment post-service.
- 5. Physical Demands: Comfortably handle the physical requirements of a high-volume kitchen, including heavy lifting (e.g., large pots and bulk ingredients).
Requirements
- 1. Experience: Proven experience cooking in high-volume, large-scale catering environments (experience with hundreds of portions is essential).
- 2. Certifications: Must possess a valid Medical Certificate.
- 3. A minimum of two verifiable, traceable professional references.
- Personal Attributes: 1. Highly reliable, honest, and of sober habits, maintaining absolute professionalism under pressure.
- 2. A true team player with a positive attitude and willingness to pitch in wherever needed.
- 3. A collaborative team player with a positive, proactive attitude and a willingness to lead by example.
- 4. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to mentor and guide untrained community volunteers effectively.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ihararejobs.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or experience are typically required for a Cook/Chef position in Zimbabwe?
Employers usually look for a culinary diploma or certificate from a reputable institution in Zimbabwe, such as a polytechnic or culinary school. Practical experience in a hotel, restaurant, or industrial catering setting, often ranging from 2-5 years, is highly valued. Some roles might accept extensive on-the-job experience without formal qualifications if skills are proven and references are strong.
What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Cook/Chef in a full-time catering role in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks involve menu preparation, cooking various meals according to recipes and dietary requirements, and managing kitchen inventory efficiently. You'll also be responsible for maintaining high standards of hygiene, food safety, and kitchen cleanliness, often supervising junior kitchen staff.
What are the common work culture and expectations for chefs in Zimbabwe, especially in a corporate catering environment?
Punctuality, strong work ethic, and adaptability to varying meal schedules and client needs are highly expected in Zimbabwean kitchens. Teamwork and respectful communication within the kitchen brigade are crucial, alongside a commitment to maintaining quality and efficiency under pressure.
What are the potential career progression opportunities for a Cook/Chef in Zimbabwe?
Starting as a Cook, one can progress to a Senior Cook, Sous Chef, or even Head Chef position, especially within larger establishments or catering companies. Further development could lead to roles in kitchen management, catering supervision, or specializing in particular cuisines.
What typical benefits can a Cook/Chef expect to receive from a full-time employer in Zimbabwe?
Full-time employees typically receive statutory benefits like annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays as per Zimbabwean labour laws. Many reputable employers also offer medical aid contributions and pension fund schemes to their staff as part of their employment package.
What is the best way to apply for a Cook/Chef role in Zimbabwe, and what do employers prioritize in applications?
Applications are usually submitted online through company websites or local job portals, or via email with a detailed CV and cover letter. Employers in Zimbabwe prioritize relevant work experience, demonstrable culinary skills, food safety certifications, and strong professional references.