Food Services Aid (Permanent position)

This permanent position as a Food Services Aid is based at Radie Kotze Hospital in the Bergriver Sub-district of the West Coast District, within a large-scale hospital kitchen environment. The role is essential to the daily operation of the hospital’s food service unit, ensuring that patients, staff and other clients receive meals that are prepared safely, hygienically and according to prescribed dietary requirements. As part of the departmental team, the successful candidate will contribute to the broader functioning of the hospital by supporting therapeutic and normal diet production, maintaining quality standards and assisting with the smooth running of the food service operation.

Applicants must have appropriate experience in a large-scale kitchen, specifically within a hospital environment. This is not an entry-level post; it requires familiarity with industrial food production and the ability to work with therapeutic diets. Basic numeracy and literacy skills are required, along with the ability to interpret recipes, use a scale, perform basic calculations and assist with production planning. A sound knowledge of hygiene, occupational health, HACCP principles and safety protocols is essential, as is the ability to handle industrial kitchen equipment correctly and safely. The role demands a person who can work independently, often under pressure, while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

The key duties include rendering food services across the hospital, which means preparing, portioning and serving meals for both normal and therapeutic diets. The incumbent must also apply and maintain quality and risk management practices, ensuring that all food handling meets the required standards of safety and hygiene. Maintaining apparatus and equipment is another core responsibility, which includes cleaning, basic care and reporting faults to ensure that all kitchen machinery remains in good working order. In addition, the position supports the human resources function within the unit, which may involve assisting with training, supervision or other HR-related activities as directed by the department.

There are several inherent requirements that must be considered before applying. The successful candidate must be able to work shifts, including weekends and public holidays, as hospital food services operate outside normal working hours. The job is physically demanding: the incumbent must be healthy and strong enough to lift heavy objects and remain on their feet for the entire day. Adherence to departmental dress specifications and hospital policy is mandatory. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo a practical test as part of the selection process, and no payment of any kind is required when applying for this post. The position is permanent and offers the standard service benefits associated with a government post, including a thirteenth cheque, pension fund contributions, and housing and medical aid allowances, making it a stable employment opportunity within the public health sector. Candidates who meet the experience and competency requirements and are committed to maintaining high standards of food service in a hospital setting are encouraged to apply.