Chefs, Waiters & Gardener Vacancies at Shadows of Africa September  2025

Chefs, Waiters & Gardener Vacancies at Shadows of Africa September 2025

JOB DESCRIPTIONS

SENIOR CHEF (2 POSITIONS)

Reports To: Head Chef
Role Summary:

Shadows of Africa on behalf of its properties that include lodges and camps is seeking two experienced Senior Chefs with 8 to 15 years of proven expertise in the culinary industry. The ideal candidates must be highly skilled in kitchen management, menu planning, food costing, and staff supervision. They will assist the Head Chef in ensuring the highest standards of food quality, safety, and presentation, and act as second-in-command during the Head Chef’s absence. Additional knowledge of foreign languages will be considered an advantage, enabling effective communication with international guests.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in managing all kitchen operations and ensuring smooth workflow.
• Plan and design menus in line with the lodge’s standards and guest preferences.
• Food preparation as per different Menus.
• Oversee food preparation, presentation, and portion control to maintain quality standards.
• Manage inventory, stock control, and supplier coordination to ensure cost-effective purchasing.
• Prepare and monitor kitchen budgets, food costing, and waste management.
• Enforce compliance with health, safety, and hygiene regulations at all times.
• Supervise, train, and mentor junior kitchen staff to maintain professional standards.
• Step in as the acting Head Chef when the Head Chef is unavailable.
• Ensure proper handling and maintenance of kitchen equipment.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Diploma or Certificate in Culinary Arts or related field (Advanced training is an advantage).
• 8 to 15 years of professional experience in a similar role within a reputable hotel, lodge, or resort, or a boutique property (strongly advised)
• Knowledge of foreign languages (such as French, Italian, or German) is an added advantage.
• Proven ability to manage a kitchen team and maintain operational efficiency.
• Strong knowledge of menu planning, food costing, and budgeting.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and maintain high standards.
• Creativity and passion for culinary excellence.

Key Competencies

• Leadership & Team Management
• Financial & Resource Management
• Time Management & Multitasking
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making
• Attention to Detail

SOUS-CHEF (1 POSITION)

 

Reports To: Head Chef / Senior Chefs
Role Summary:

Shadows of Africa is seeking a highly skilled Sous-Chef to support the Head Chef and Senior Chefs in the day-to-day management of kitchen operations. The ideal candidate must be experienced in food preparation, supervising kitchen staff, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. The Sous-Chef will act as a key assistant in menu execution, stock management, and staff training, ensuring smooth kitchen workflow at all times.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef and Senior Chefs in managing daily kitchen operations.
• Supervise food preparation, cooking, and presentation to maintain quality and consistency.
• Support in menu planning, recipe development, and special event coordination.
• Monitor inventory levels and assist in ordering supplies as needed.
• Ensure adherence to food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards at all times.
• Train, mentor, and supervise chefs, cooks, and kitchen trainees.
• Assist in managing food portioning and waste control to minimize costs.
• Handle kitchen equipment with care and report maintenance issues promptly.
• Take responsibility for the kitchen in the absence of Senior Chefs or Head Chef.
• Work closely with service staff to ensure timely and efficient meal delivery.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Certificate or Diploma in Culinary Arts or related field.
• 2 to 5 years of experience as a Sous-Chef in a reputable hotel, lodge, or boutique property (strongly preferred).
• Knowledge of foreign languages (such as French, Italian, or German) is an added advantage.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations.
• Ability to manage a team and work collaboratively under pressure.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and multitasking skills.
• Creative and passionate about delivering high-quality dishes.

Key Competencies

• Team Leadership & Supervision
• Food Quality & Presentation
• Inventory & Cost Control
• Time Management & Multitasking
• Problem-Solving & Attention to Details.

WAITER

Job Title: Waiter (2 Positions)

Reports To: Lodge Manager / Restaurant Supervisor
Department: Food & Beverage
Location: Olerai Lodge/Karatu/Tamu Tamu Camp
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

Shadows of Africa is seeking two professional and customer-oriented Waiters with experience in food and beverage service and a strong knowledge of bar operations. The ideal candidates must possess excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to provide exceptional dining experiences, and the technical skills to handle both restaurant service and bar operations, including mixing drinks and serving beverages in compliance with lodge standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet and seat guests in a friendly and professional manner.
• Take and relay food and beverage orders accurately and promptly.
• Serve meals, beverages, and bar drinks efficiently and according to standard presentation guidelines.
• Prepare and serve cocktails, wines, spirits, and other beverages as per bar menu.
• Provide guests with recommendations on food and beverage pairings.
• Handle bar stock, replenish supplies, and maintain cleanliness of the bar area.
• Ensure compliance with hygiene, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Process guest bills accurately and handle cash or POS transactions.
• Assist in setting up and clearing tables, ensuring the dining area and bar are well organized.
• Handle guest inquiries and resolve complaints promptly to maintain customer satisfaction.
• Maintain knowledge of menu items, daily specials, and promotions.
• Follow lodge policies and procedures, including responsible alcohol service.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Certificate/Diploma in Food & Beverage Service or Hospitality Management (added advantage).
• 2 to 5 years of experience as a Waiter in a reputable hotel, lodge, or resort.
• Proven knowledge of bar service, including cocktail preparation and beverage handling. Previously worked at a Boutique Property (Strongly Preferred).
• Knowledge of foreign languages (such as French, Italian, or German) is an added advantage.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with attention to detail.
• Basic knowledge of cash handling and POS systems.
• Flexible and willing to work shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Key Competencies

• Customer Service & Guest Relations
• Bar Knowledge & Beverage Service
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills
• Teamwork & Professionalism
• Attention to Detail & Multitasking

GARDENER

Job Title: Gardener

Reports To: Lodge Manager / Maintenance Supervisor
Location: Olerai Lodge
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

Olerai Lodge is seeking a skilled and experienced Gardener to maintain the beauty and health of the lodge gardens, landscapes, and outdoor areas. The ideal candidate must have experience in gardening, landscaping, and plant care, ensuring the lodge grounds provide a welcoming and serene environment for guests. Knowledge of horticulture, irrigation systems, and the ability to work with minimal supervision is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain lodge gardens, lawns, trees, flowers, and shrubs to ensure a neat and attractive appearance.
• Water, weed, prune, fertilize, and mulch plants as needed.
• Prepare soil and plant flowers, shrubs, and trees according to landscaping plans.
• Operate and maintain gardening tools, machinery, and irrigation systems.
• Identify and control pests and plant diseases using safe and approved methods.
• Maintain outdoor pathways, decorative features, and ensure cleanliness of the grounds.
• Assist in seasonal planting and landscaping projects as required.
• Report any landscaping or irrigation issues promptly to the Lodge Manager or Maintenance Supervisor.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 3-6 years of experience as a Gardener or in landscaping/horticulture.
• Knowledge of plant care, landscaping techniques, and soil management.
• Ability to operate and maintain gardening tools and small machinery.
• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Basic knowledge of irrigation systems and pest control methods.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and a passion for maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces.

Key Competencies

• Plant Care & Horticulture Knowledge
• Time Management & Reliability
• Physical Fitness & Stamina
• Attention to Detail & Aesthetic Sense
• Safety & Environmental Awareness

TO APPLY:

Application documents ( CV & Cover Letter ) should be sent through: legal.dept@shadowsofafrica.com