At a Glance
- Tasks: Work in diverse kitchens, providing essential cover and creating delicious dishes.
- Company: Join a leading recruitment agency in the catering and hospitality sector.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive pay, free meals, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Immediate start with great career development potential.
- Why this job: Choose your shifts and gain experience across various exciting venues.
- Qualifications: Catering qualifications and at least one year of kitchen experience required.
The predicted salary is between 32 - 32 £ per hour.
Location: Reading
Contract type: Temp
Starting on: July 2026
Rate of pay:
- Mon- Fri £15.00 to £22.00 + Holiday pay per hour
- Weekends £15.00 to £32.00 per hour + Holiday pay per hour
Are you wanting to choose the hours you work and be paid for every hour you work? Do you enjoy working in a variety of different kitchens gaining experience in all sectors of our industry? If the answer is yes, then we would love to hear from you.
The role:
You will be working for one of the UK's leading recruitment agencies providing chefs cover to a variety of catering and hospitality businesses. Our clients are: Hotels, Golf clubs, Sporting Venues, Private clubs, Garden centres, Retirement villages, Schools, Colleges, Universities, Pubs, and Restaurants along with many other catering and hospitality venues. As a chef, you will work in different venues providing vital cover to ensure that our clients can provide a great food offer to their customers.
Benefits:
- Paid weekly
- Hourly Pay
- Flexible working hours
- Free meals whilst on duty
- Free Parking available
- Opportunities to gain experience in diverse venues
- Training and development available
Key information:
- Immediate Start
- Choose your working days and we will match you with suitable shifts
- Work Monday to Friday or just weekends - The choice is yours.
- Variety of shift patterns available for full time and part time hours
Key responsibilities include:
- Knowledge and ability to independently and effectively run your section, for example, meat, fish, vegetables, pastry, butchery, sauces, grill, starches, starters, fry, pantry and roast
- The ability to supervise, engage and teach Commis Chefs and Kitchen Assistants
- The ability to delegate tasks appropriately
- Ability to work without close supervision and deliver quality work
- Strong ability to produce good quality food and first-rate culinary skills
As a Chef you will be/have:
- Strong attention to detail
- Enthusiasm and willingness to develop your own skills and knowledge, plus those around you
- Flexible and have a willingness to embrace new ideas and processes
- Good team management skills
- Team player qualities and the ability to work well with staff at all levels in the kitchen
- Positive and approachable manner
- Able to thrive in a fast-paced kitchen
- A cool/calm/level head when under pressure and during a busy service
In the care sector need a basic awareness of allergens, special diets, portion control and recipe costings, under guidance from the Sous Chef or Head Chef.
Qualifications/Licences/Certifications/Experience:
- City & Guilds 706/1 or 706/2 in Catering
- NVQ/SVQ Level 2 (or equivalent)
- Level 1 and 2 Food Safety Awards
- Minimum 1 year's relevant experience
- Awareness of manual handling techniques
- Awareness of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) and chemical safety
- Experience of kitchen equipment including different knives
- Understandable level of English spoken and written
- Any health and safety and food hygiene courses
Desired but not necessary:
- Level 2 Health and Safety in the Workplace Award
- Level 3 Food Safety Awards
If you've got what it takes to be our next Agency Chef, then don't hesitate to apply today!
Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.
Agency Chef - Reading employer: All The Top Bananas
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Agency Chef - Reading
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Trends
With temporary roles often popping up during busy seasons, like summer or festive times, keep an eye out for openings as these businesses ramp up. Joining local community groups on social media can also help you stay ahead of the game: think pop-up events, seasonal fairs, or any openings in your area!
✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
We all know people in the hospitality world, right? Now's the time to message those friends or acquaintances who might already be working in restaurants or bars. They could give you the insider scoop on who’s hiring or even put in a good word for you – it’s all about that inside connection!
✨Apply Through Us for Quick Visibility
Don't forget you can apply for temporary roles directly through our website! It’s not just about the big chain restaurants; many smaller, local places look there for quick hires. Plus, it helps us get you on the radar of employers looking for passionate workers like you, so what are you waiting for?
We think you need these skills to ace Agency Chef - Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at All The Top Bananas
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at All The Top Bananas. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
