Transnet is Now Hiring Coocks

Position Title: Cook (Vessel-Based)

Operating Division: Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA)
Department: Dredging – Plough Vessel, Shift B
Employee Group: Permanent
Location: Durban, South Africa
Grade: J1
Reference Number: req3129
Reporting To: Chief Mate

Closing Date: [Date to be inserted]
Applicants are responsible for ensuring their application reaches the HR department before the closing date.

Position Purpose

The purpose of this position is to plan, prepare, and serve nutritious meals for the dredger crew while ensuring hygienic, safe, and economical operation of the catering facilities onboard. The role is critical in maintaining crew health, morale, and operational readiness by offering well-balanced meals that cater to various dietary, cultural, and religious requirements.

Key Responsibilities (Position Outputs)

The successful candidate will be required to:

Plan and coordinate nutritious meal schedules for a two-week rotation, including balanced options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Create and update menu plans that accommodate crew preferences and dietary requirements, including religious and cultural needs.
Prepare meals economically using allocated resources while maintaining food quality and safety standards.
Set up the mess room for meal service to ensure a clean, organized, and welcoming environment.
Supervise daily cleaning of kitchen areas, mess rooms, equipment, and cold storage units to maintain hygiene compliance.
Conduct regular stock takes and prepare requisitions for ingredients and supplies to submit to the vessel’s Master.
Receive and inspect deliveries, checking the quantity and quality of items received, and store them safely and securely.
Ensure the rotation of food stock (FIFO – First In, First Out) to minimize waste.
Oversee the duties of kitchen assistants and stewards, ensuring all tasks are performed to standard.
Maintain strict hygiene and cleanliness standards in all food preparation and storage areas at all times.
Adhere to scheduled mealtimes and ensure timely meal preparation, even under challenging operational conditions.
Exhibit sensitivity and professionalism in preparing meals that respect crew members’ religious, cultural, and dietary preferences.
Contribute to a positive working environment by ensuring order, discipline, and team cooperation in the galley and dining areas.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

Pathway 1:

Grade 12 (Matric Certificate – NQF Level 4)
Valid Efficient Cook Certificate of Competence
Valid SAMSA Medical Certificate
STCW-compliant ancillary courses
Minimum of 6 months’ experience in a similar role onboard a maritime vessel

Pathway 2:

Efficient Cook Certificate of Competence
Minimum of 1 year’s experience working onboard a vessel in a cooking role
Valid SAMSA Medical Certificate
STCW-compliant ancillary courses

Core Competencies and Skills

Knowledge Requirements:

Principles of hygiene and sanitation on a maritime vessel
Safe food storage and handling
Health and safety regulations relevant to galley operations
Menu planning and meal budgeting
Food nutrition and portion control
Understanding of cultural and religious dietary practices

Skills and Attributes:

Time management – must deliver meals on time
Strong planning and organizational skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
High levels of neatness, cleanliness, and discipline
Ability to work effectively under pressure in a confined and team-oriented environment
Basic proficiency in English reading and writing

Employment Equity Statement

Transnet is committed to employment equity and transformation. Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants from designated groups, in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan and targets of the Organisation and Operating Division.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the official Transnet recruitment portal or as specified in the job listing. Ensure all supporting documents (CV, qualifications, certificates, etc.) are uploaded and submitted before the closing date. Apply now

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