Meal Prep Helper

Location: Various Provincial Elderly Care Centre’s
Salary: R6,300 per month
Position Type: Full-time
Reports To: Kitchen Supervisor / Head Chef

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Job Overview:


The Meal Prep Helper assists in the preparation and organisation of meals for residents, ensuring that all food is prepared according to dietary guidelines and quality standards. This role involves working closely with the kitchen team to provide nutritious, appealing meals and support a smooth kitchen operation.

Key Responsibilities:

Food Preparation:

Assist in washing, peeling, and chopping vegetables and fruits.
Help in the preparation of ingredients according to meal recipes.
Measure and mix ingredients as directed by the kitchen supervisor or head chef.
Ensure all food preparation areas are clean and organized.


Kitchen Organization:

Keep track of food supplies and ingredients, ensuring they are stored properly.
Label and date food items to ensure proper rotation and prevent spoilage.
Assist in inventory management, including stocking and organizing kitchen supplies.


Sanitation and Safety:

Follow food safety and hygiene standards, including proper handwashing and use of protective equipment.
Clean kitchen equipment, utensils, and work surfaces regularly.
Report any maintenance issues or safety concerns to the supervisor.

Meal Service:

Assist in portioning and plating meals for residents.
Help with the setup of meal service areas, including trays, utensils, and condiments.
Support the kitchen team in serving meals and responding to special dietary requests or needs.

Communication and Teamwork:

Work collaboratively with other kitchen staff to ensure efficient meal preparation.
Communicate effectively with the kitchen supervisor and other team members.
Participate in staff meetings and training sessions as required.

Additional Duties:

Perform other duties as assigned by the kitchen supervisor or head chef.
Assist in special events or themed meal preparations as needed.

Qualifications:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not required.
Experience: Prior experience in a food preparation or kitchen environment is a plus but not mandatory. On-the-job training will be provided.

Skills:
Basic understanding of food safety and hygiene practices.
Ability to follow instructions and recipes accurately.
Good organizational and time-management skills.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements:
Manual dexterity to handle kitchen tools and equipment.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.


Working Conditions:

This position requires working in a kitchen environment with exposure to heat and kitchen equipment.
Regular shifts may include weekends and holidays depending on the facility’s needs.