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- Tasks: Create exciting, fresh meals in a high-volume kitchen for students.
- Company: Join a supportive college team dedicated to delivering nutritious food.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, funded training, and a friendly work environment.
- Why this job: Perfect for those who love cooking and want a great work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Level 2 Maths and English required; Level 3 chef qualification preferred.
- Other info: No evening shifts; flexible start date; must pass DBS check.
Starting Salary: £24,257 per annum
Location: Essex area
Hours: 37 hours per week (Monday to Friday, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm)
Contract: Permanent
Start: ASAP / Flexible
About the Team
Are you passionate about delivering the very best service and creating exciting, fresh, and nutritious food every day? Great tasting, healthy food is the foundation of everything our client does, ensuring the students look forward to meals they love. Join a supportive team that shares your commitment to excellence.
About the Role
Our client is seeking an enthusiastic and innovative chef to join a dynamic team at a college in the Essex area. This permanent, weekday-only position offers a great work-life balance with no evening shifts, making it ideal for a chef experienced in preparing fresh food in a high-volume kitchen. You’ll take pride in producing high-quality meals while ensuring all health, safety, and food hygiene standards are met. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have an eye for detail, this role is for you.
What We Are Looking For:
- A team player with a fun, positive attitude and the ability to take their role seriously.
- Ambitious and committed to delivering the best service possible.
- Exceptional attention to detail and pride in leading a team that consistently delivers excellence.
- Strong ability to work under pressure and maintain composure.
- Passionate about providing excellent customer service and creating memorable dining experiences.
- Flexible and adaptable approach to work, with excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.
- Level 2 Maths and English qualifications are required.
- Preferred candidates will have proven experience and a Level 3 chef qualification, with HACCP compliance.
What We Can Offer:
- A provided uniform and a meal on duty.
- Funded training and professional development opportunities to enhance their career.
- An excellent benefits package, including:
- 30 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays).
- College closures during Christmas and Easter.
- Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Free parking.
- A friendly and supportive working environment.
Application Details:
Closing Date: 21st April 2025, 23:59
Please note, this vacancy may close early depending on the volume of applications received. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this fantastic opportunity.
Work Location: In person
Reference ID: TWG05
Start date: ASAP/ Flexible
How to Apply:
Submit your CV through this advert today to start the process. Alternatively, please contact Cole on the below phone number/email address to discuss further. Please ensure your contact details are up-to-date so we can get in touch quickly.
Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. As this role will involve being on site with under 18’s or vulnerable adults, any appointment will be made subject to strict vetting and screening checks, and receipt of a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
Chef / Caterer employer: The Waiting Game
Contact Detail:
The Waiting Game Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef / Caterer
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to showcase your passion for fresh and nutritious food during any interviews. Share specific examples of dishes you've created that align with the values of providing healthy meals, as this will resonate well with our commitment to excellence.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in high-volume kitchens, especially if you've worked in educational settings before. Discuss how you manage pressure and maintain quality, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your teamwork skills by sharing instances where you've collaborated effectively with others in a kitchen environment. A positive attitude and ability to work well with a team are key traits we’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your knowledge of health, safety, and food hygiene standards. Being able to articulate your understanding of HACCP compliance will show that you take food safety seriously, which is essential for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef / Caterer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in high-volume kitchens and showcases your culinary skills. Emphasise any qualifications, such as your Level 3 chef qualification and HACCP compliance, to stand out.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for creating nutritious meals and your commitment to excellent customer service. Mention specific examples of how you've contributed to a positive dining experience in previous roles.
Highlight Teamwork and Adaptability: In your application, emphasise your ability to work well in a team and adapt to changing situations. Provide examples of how you've maintained composure under pressure and contributed to a supportive work environment.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that your communication skills shine through, as strong written English is a requirement for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Waiting Game
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for creating fresh and nutritious meals. Share specific examples of dishes you love to prepare and how you ensure they meet high standards of quality.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Highlight your ability to work well in a team. Discuss past experiences where you collaborated with others in a kitchen environment, showcasing your positive attitude and commitment to delivering excellent service.
✨Prepare for High-Pressure Scenarios
Be ready to discuss how you handle pressure in a fast-paced kitchen. Provide examples of times when you maintained composure and delivered quality results under tight deadlines.
✨Emphasise Attention to Detail
Talk about your meticulous approach to food preparation and hygiene standards. Mention any relevant qualifications, like HACCP compliance, and how they contribute to your ability to produce high-quality meals consistently.
