Kitchen Assistant

Job Title: Kitchen Assistant Location: Sambora Kinigi Lodge, [Musanze] Job Type: Full-time About Sambora Kinigi Sambora Kinigi Lodge, located in the heart of Kinigi, offers an extraordinary blend of nature, culture, and culinary artistry. As part of our mission to deliver an unforgettable luxury experience, we are seeking a talented Kitchen Assistant to support our Head Chef in leading the kitchen team, maintaining high culinary standards, and enhancing our gastronomic offerings. Job Overview As a Kitchen Assistant, you will work closely with the Head Chef, bridging the gap between strategic kitchen leadership and daily operations. Your responsibilities will include supervising the kitchen team, overseeing food preparation, ensuring quality control, and fostering innovation in menu development. This role demands a mix of operational efficiency, creative flair, and leadership to achieve Sambora’s international culinary standards. Key Responsibilities Culinary Excellence Assist the Head Chef in conceptualizing, developing, and refining menus that align with Sambora Kinigi’s vision of cultural authenticity and luxury. Supervise food preparation, ensuring every dish meets established quality, presentation, and timing standards. Develop signature menu items, ensuring consistency in taste and Train and mentor kitchen staff, nurturing their culinary skills and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. Operational Management Coordinate daily kitchen operations, ensuring timely service, smooth workflows, and adherence to safety and sanitation protocols. Manage inventory, procurement, and stock rotation to minimize waste and maintain optimal levels of supplies. Establish and enforce standard operating procedures to enhance kitchen Team Collaboration Lead and inspire the kitchen team, fostering teamwork and effective Partner with the Head Chef in menu planning, special event coordination, and staff performance reviews. Act as a bridge between kitchen and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless guest Guest Satisfaction Monitor guest feedback to maintain and exceed expectations regarding culinary Assist in accommodating special dietary requirements and personalized culinary requests with professionalism and creativity. Qualifications Proven experience as a Sous Chef or Kitchen Assistant in a high-end restaurant or luxury hospitality environment. Culinary degree or equivalent professional Strong leadership and mentorship Creative and innovative approach to menu development and In-depth knowledge of food safety and sanitation Excellent organizational and communication Ability to thrive under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen Benefits Competitive salary and benefits Meals provided during working Opportunities for professional growth and Work in a stunning natural environment that celebrates cultural heritage and culinary Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Menu Excellence Consistency: Achieve consistent taste, presentation, and portioning across assigned menu