Are you passionate about food and hospitality? Do you have experience managing stock and ensuring smooth operations in a kitchen environment? If so, you might be the perfect fit for the Catering Officer Vacancy at North-West University (NWU).
NWU is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented individual to fill the role of Catering Officer on their Vanderbijlpark campus. This is an exciting permanent opportunity in the Hospitality and Catering industry within the Education & Training sector.
Catering Officer Vacancy Overview
- Job Title: Catering Officer (V000389)
- Location: Vanderbijlpark Campus
- Contract: Permanent
- Salary: The total annual remuneration will align with NWU’s policy guidelines and the level of the appointment.
- Application Deadline: 16 May 2025
About North-West University
North-West University (NWU) is one of South Africa’s leading higher education institutions. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. NWU’s Vanderbijlpark campus offers a diverse and dynamic environment, making it an excellent place to work and grow professionally.
The university is an equal opportunity employer and adheres to the principles of the Employment Equity Act. They are committed to transformation and encourage individuals from designated groups to apply.
Purpose of the Position
The Catering Officer is a key role in the university’s catering department. The officer will be responsible for overseeing the ordering, receiving, and storage of stock for the catering operations at the Vanderbijlpark campus. This includes managing inventory, ensuring food quality, and maintaining a smooth flow of operations to meet the needs of the catering team and the wider university community.
Key Responsibilities
As a Catering Officer, your day-to-day responsibilities will include:
- Records Management: Ensuring all invoices, stock requisitions, and records of wastage are carefully maintained and filed.
- Inventory Management: Ordering and receiving stock based on departmental requirements, checking for expiry dates, damage, and ensuring stock is rotated according to the “First In, First Out” (FIFO) principle.
- Stock Control: Weighing and issuing stock daily in exact quantities required for food production. Ensuring that stock is correctly identified, labelled, and stored.
- Stock Taking: Carrying out monthly stock takes and ensuring that stores are securely locked.
- Health & Safety: Following Occupational Health & Safety procedures and maintaining cleanliness in food preparation and storage areas.
- Teamwork: Collaborating with other team members to ensure that food service operations are conducted effectively and efficiently.
Key Functional and Technical Competencies
To excel in this position, the ideal candidate should possess:
- Knowledge of Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) procedures.
- Food Preparation Skills: Familiarity with food handling, preparation, and industrial kitchen operations.
- Stock Management Skills: Ability to properly store and handle food products, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
- Computer Literacy: Proficiency in MS Office and email communication.
- Physical Ability: The role may require lifting heavy items, so physical fitness is a plus.
Key Behavioral Competencies
The successful candidate will need to demonstrate:
- Time Management: The ability to work efficiently, managing multiple tasks within tight deadlines.
- Flexibility: Willingness to work irregular hours to meet operational needs.
- Organisational Skills: Strong planning and organisational skills to manage stock levels and food service operations.
- Client Service Orientation: Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and ensure high standards of customer service.
Minimum Requirements
To apply for the Catering Officer position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Grade 12 (NQF Level 4) certificate.
- Experience: A minimum of two (2) years’ experience in stock management or a similar role in the catering or hospitality industry.
Added Advantages & Preferences
While not mandatory, the following qualifications and experiences will give candidates an edge:
- A Certificate/Diploma in Food & Beverage Management, Catering Management, or Business Administration.
- Previous experience in a similar role in a catering environment would be advantageous.
Remuneration
The Catering Officer will receive a competitive annual total remuneration package, which will be in line with the NWU policy and the level of appointment as advertised.
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How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online via the official NWU vacancy website. Please ensure that your application is complete before submission. Incomplete applications or those submitted through other platforms will not be considered.
For any inquiries regarding the job content, you can contact Ms. NS Magudulela at 016 910 3078. For questions about the recruitment process, reach out to Ms. M Motsemme at 018 299 4958.
The Catering Officer Vacancy at North-West University is a fantastic opportunity for someone with experience in stock management, food service, and inventory control. If you are passionate about the hospitality industry and have the necessary skills and experience, we encourage you to apply before the deadline on 16 May 2025.
