Michaelhouse Vacancy

Call Order Chef / Cook

Founded in 1896 and set in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Michaelhouse is a leading Anglican Independent senior Boarding School for boys from Grade 8 to Grade 12.

We invite suitably experienced candidates to apply for the full-time, permanent position of Call Order Chef / Cook at the Michaelhouse coffee shop, commencing in January 2027.

Based on the school campus in Balgowan and reporting to the Coffee Shop Manager, the Call Order Chef / Cook will be responsible for food preparation, cooking meals to order and the smooth running of the coffee shop kitchen, delivering quality, well-presented food to boys, staff, parents, Old Boys and visitors, while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and hygiene and the values expected of the school.

Responsibilities (include, but are not limited to)

• Prepare and cook meals to order (call order) promptly and accurately, in line with the coffee shop’s menu, recipes and presentation standards.
• Carry out daily food preparation (mise en place) to ensure the kitchen is ready for service.
• Apply portion control consistently to manage food costs and reduce wastage.
• Ensure full compliance with food safety and hygiene legislation (including R638 and the Certificate of Acceptability), HACCP principles and allergen controls.
• Receive, check, label, store and rotate stock (FIFO), monitor stock levels and assist the Coffee Shop Manager with ordering and regular stock takes.
• Coordinate the kitchen during service, working closely with the barista and front-of-house team so that orders are delivered on time.
• Keep the kitchen, equipment and storage areas clean, organised and safe, following cleaning schedules and the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is used correctly, and report any faults or maintenance needs to the Coffee Shop Manager.
• Contribute ideas to menu development, specials and theme days, within school guidelines on products sold to boys.
• Prepare food for school functions, sports fixtures and events, as required.
• Uphold the school’s child protection and safeguarding policy in all interactions with boys.
• Assist in other areas of the coffee shop as and when required.

Qualifications & Experience

• A Grade 12 (Matric) certificate.
• A professional cookery or culinary qualification is desirable, unless the applicant can demonstrate the necessary competencies through experience.
• A minimum of 2–3 years’ experience in a commercial kitchen.
• Proven experience in preparing meals to order (call order / à la carte), food preparation, stock management and kitchen coordination.
• A good understanding of portion control and food hygiene.
• A recognised food safety / food hygiene certificate (or willingness to obtain one within one year of appointment).
• Experience in a coffee shop, café, school or institutional catering environment will be an advantage.

Skills & Competencies

• Planning and organising: able to prioritise orders and prepare ahead for busy periods.
• Attention to detail: particularly in food safety, portion control and presentation.
• Working under pressure: calm, efficient and accurate during peak service times, fixtures and events.
• Teamwork and coordination: works well with the barista and front-of-house team to keep service running smoothly.
• Cost awareness: understands how portion control, wastage and stock rotation affect food costs.
• Reliability: punctual, trustworthy and honest, with a positive attitude and high personal standards.
• Physical fitness: the role involves standing for long periods, working in a hot kitchen and lifting stock.

Important Conditions

• The working hours are 07:30 to 17:00 (coffee shop trading hours).
• Due to the nature of the role, it will be a requirement to work weekends, evenings, public holidays and school events as necessary.
• The leave entitlement is 30 days per annum, which may be taken during school holidays.
• As the role involves working with children, the appointment is subject to a satisfactory SAPS police clearance and clearance against the National Child Protection Register (Children’s Act 38 of 2005) and the National Register for Sex Offenders.
• This position would be best suited to someone resident within reasonable travelling distance of Michaelhouse.

Michaelhouse offers a unique educational environment, combining academic rigour, rich traditions, a strong boarding culture and exceptional co-curricular opportunities. The school seeks leaders who are deeply aligned with its values and committed to shaping young men who will contribute meaningfully to society. A competitive remuneration package is offered, together with benefits.

To Apply

Complete the online application form at: Michaelhouse Admin Application Form – Fill out form (click HERE!)

In addition, email your motivation letter AND a detailed CV to careers@michaelhouse.org.

Closing date for applications: 13 November 2026

Note: Please reference the job title in the subject of your email for ease of reference.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Submission of an application does not guarantee an interview. Michaelhouse reserves the right not to fill this position.

Michaelhouse is committed to transformation. In line with our Employment Equity Plan, preference may be given to candidates from designated groups.

POPIA Disclaimer: Michaelhouse is committed to protecting the confidentiality of all personal information. By applying for this position, you consent to your personal information being used for recruitment purposes related to this role and any future opportunities, in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act.

INTEGRITY | HUMILITY | COURAGE | COMPASSION | SERVICE