Commis Chef - Pastry in City of Westminster

House of Lords - Catering and Retail Services

BELONG HERE. TOGETHER, WE MAKE PARLIAMENT HAPPEN.

As a Commis Chef you'll play an important role in supporting the UK's parliamentary democracy. Your work will help Members carry out their responsibilities effectively - contributing to something bigger than any one role.

You'll be part of a collaborative community, working alongside colleagues from a wide range of professions. Together, we make Parliament happen.

You'll be based on the Parliamentary Estate in Westminster - a unique working environment shaped by history and powered by the people who work here today.

You'll support the pastry team in the preparation and delivery of high-quality pastry products, desserts and baked goods, gaining hands‑on experience across all aspects of pastry production.

You'll work under the guidance of the Head Pastry Chef, Sous Chefs and Chef de Parties, developing your skills in pastry preparation, presentation and kitchen organisation while contributing to consistently high standards of food quality and service.

This is an excellent opportunity to develop a career in a professional pastry kitchen, supporting the delivery of high-quality desserts, breads, pastries, confectionery and afternoon tea items across a wide range of catering operations.

What you'll be doing

In this role, you'll:

• Support the preparation and production of a range of desserts, pastries, breads, cakes, afternoon tea items, and confectionery products, working alongside experienced pastry chefs.
• Gain valuable exposure to restaurant service, banqueting, hospitality events, afternoon tea production, and artisan bread making.
• Assist with mise en place across all pastry sections to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Follow recipes, portion guidelines, and presentation standards while developing your pastry skills.
• Contribute to the production of plated desserts for restaurants, banqueting functions, and hospitality events.
• Assist with bread production, ice creams, sorbets, chocolate work, and other pastry preparations as required.
• Support service by helping to ensure preparations are completed and maintained throughout service periods.
• Take pride in delivering consistently high standards of preparation, finishing, and presentation.

What we're looking for

We're looking for someone who can bring their skills and experience to make a meaningful contribution here.

You'll have:

• Some experience within a pastry, bakery, catering, or hospitality environment would be advantageous, although we welcome applicants with a strong interest in developing a career in pastry.
• Good communication skills, alongside a positive and enthusiastic approach to work.
• An understanding of the importance of food hygiene and food safety practices.
• A willingness to learn, grow, and embrace new challenges in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• The ability to work effectively with colleagues and contribute to a supportive team environment.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to stay organised while managing a variety of tasks.
• A recognised culinary qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 1 or Level 2 in Professional Cookery, Patisserie or equivalent).

It would be even better if you have (or are willing to learn):

• An interest in bread making, chocolate work, desserts or afternoon tea production.
• Knowledge of classical and contemporary pastry techniques.

For full details, please see the job description.

What you'll get in return

Working at the House of Lords means joining a community that values your wellbeing, growth and contribution.

You'll benefit from:

• 30 days annual leave (rising to 35 after one year).
• A comprehensive Parliamentary health and wellbeing programme.
• Access to a wide range of learning and development opportunities across diverse professions.
• The chance to witness democracy in action and work in a place of historic national significance.

The work we do is vital to the House of Lords - the second chamber of the UK Parliament. It plays a critical role in making laws, scrutinising government, and providing independent expertise on national issues.