Job Description
Main Function
- The Continental Commis Chef supports the kitchen by preparing ingredients, assisting in the cooking of continental and European-style dishes, maintaining excellent hygiene standards, and ensuring smooth workflow within the continental section.
- The role is essential in delivering high-quality meals and supporting senior chefs in day-to-day food production.
- The ideal candidate must have strong interest in continental cuisine, be detail-oriented, willing to learn, and able to work in a fast-paced, high-standard kitchen environment.
Responsibilities
Food Preparation:
- Assist in preparing ingredients including washing, chopping, slicing, marinating, seasoning, and portioning.
- Prepare basic continental dishes such as pasta, sauces, salads, grills, sautéed meals, egg dishes, sandwiches, and pastries under supervision.
- Follow standard recipes, presentation guidelines, and taste profiles set by senior chefs.
- Assist in preparing mise en place for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and banquet operations.
Cooking Assistance:
- Support the Chef de Partie and Sous Chef in cooking various continental meals.
- Safely operate kitchen equipment such as ovens, grills, planchas, fryers, salamanders, and mixers.
- Apply correct cooking techniques, temperature control, and timing to maintain food quality.
- Assist in plating, garnishing, and presenting dishes in accordance with hotel standards.
Kitchen Hygiene and Safety:
- Adhere strictly to HACCP standards and all food safety regulations.
- Keep workstations clean, organized, sanitized, and fully stocked at all times.
- Ensure proper storage of dairy, meats, vegetables, pastries, and other continental ingredients.
- Dispose of waste properly and maintain kitchen cleanliness procedures.
- Immediately report faulty equipment or safety concerns.
Inventory and Stock Control:
- Assist with receiving and checking food supplies for quality and accuracy.
- Rotate stock using the FIFO method to prevent spoilage and reduce waste.
- Report low-stock or missing items to the Chef de Partie.
- Handle kitchen tools, utensils, and appliances responsibly.
Team Support and Cooperation:
- Work closely with other kitchen staff to ensure efficient operations.
- Support senior chefs during busy periods, buffet service, and banquets.
- Participate in menu development and suggest new dish ideas when required.
- Attend kitchen briefings and training sessions to improve skills and performance.
Experience / Qualification
- Minimum of SSCE; additional culinary training or a certificate is an added advantage.
- 1 – 3 years of experience as a Commis Chef or kitchen assistant.
- Experience in hotels, restaurants, lounges, or hospitality settings is preferred.
- Practical knowledge of continental cuisine is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with basic kitchen equipment, tools, and hygiene practices.
Competencies / Skills:
- Good understanding of continental dishes, sauces, and cooking methods.
- Basic culinary skills and willingness to learn advanced techniques.
- Strong attention to detail and good food presentation skills.
- Ability to work well in a team with good communication skills.
- Ability to follow instructions accurately and work under pressure.
- Basic understanding of food safety, hygiene, and temperature control.
- Ability to multitask efficiently in a busy kitchen.
Behavioural Qualities / Other Competences:
- Passionate about cooking and culinary growth.
- Reliable, respectful, and disciplined.
- Positive attitude with eagerness to improve.
- Well-groomed and maintains a professional appearance.
- Calm and focused under pressure, especially during peak hours.
- Strong work ethic and sense of responsibility.