At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook fresh meals for colleagues and visitors in a dynamic kitchen environment.
- Company: Join Brakes, the UK's largest foodservice supplier with a passion for food.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 25 days leave, health perks, and discounts on products.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values your unique talents and fosters growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by serving delicious food while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Previous kitchen experience and a positive attitude towards learning are essential.
The predicted salary is between 1040 - 1248 £ per month.
We have an opportunity for a Chef to work in our kitchen and canteen to serve fresh food to our colleagues and on-site visitors at our Brakes depot in Reading. If you have previous experience cooking and food handling and are currently searching for a great career opportunity and new direction – you’ll go far with us.
You’ll be responsible for preparing food ingredients, assisting in the cooking process and maintaining a clean and sanitary food preparation area. On a typical shift, you can expect to be cooking simple meals for up to 150 internal colleagues. This is a varied role where you will be able to assist in the planning of menus, setting up catering events as and when necessary and rota organisation. You’ll undertake cashier duties and be responsible for operating a till for contactless payments. We work as a team to all undertake cleaning and washing up in the kitchen and dining areas.
As Canteen Chef, you will need previous kitchen experience in cooking and food handling in a fast-paced, time-pressured commercial kitchen environment. You will require an ability to pick new skills up quickly both in the kitchen and on a computer using Microsoft Office. If you have excellent customer service skills along with an awareness of level 3 in Food Safety Supervision for catering and a level 2 HACCP, we want to hear from you. Previous card payment experience would be advantageous but don’t worry, it is not essential and we can teach you the basics required for the role. You’ll have a desire to learn and understand more about the business; approaching tasks with both an ability to think on your feet for problem-solving and a positive can-do attitude.
This is a great role that offers the opportunity for progression within a large organisation. In addition to a competitive monthly salary, 25 days annual leave (including statutory) and company pension, you can also look forward to the following benefits:
- Wagestream – Access to an app that gives you early access to your earned salary and supports financial wellbeing
- The option to purchase additional annual leave
- Help at Hand - Access to 24/7 GP appointments, physiotherapy and a range of health and wellbeing services for you and your family
- Life assurance
- Access to Sysco Perks offering discounts across a wide range of products and services – from gym membership to your weekly supermarket shop
- The ability to purchase our products at hugely discounted prices
- Heavily subsidised colleague canteen
To enjoy the rewards of joining our supportive team, apply now!
At Brakes, everyone is welcome. We don’t want you to ‘fit our culture’, we want you to help define it and we actively celebrate the unique talents of each and every colleague. We don’t just look at your CV, we’re more focused on who you are and your potential. As part of our values, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture where everyone has a voice, is appreciated and has the same opportunities. We work hard to ensure that everyone feels part of our business, as we care for one another and connect the world through food and trusted partnerships. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone belongs and thrives at Brakes and we recognise that Brakes can only thrive when everyone feels they belong. We’ll do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, speak to our resourcing team who will be happy to support you.
Brakes is built on a passion for food and feeding the nation, we are the UK’s largest foodservice supplier. Every day Brakes deliver the highest quality fresh and frozen food and ingredients from our nationwide network of distribution centres to some of the nation’s most famous pubs and restaurants, as well as schools, caterers, care homes and hospitals. Our customers depend on us, and our 8,000-strong workforce is dedicated and proud to be part of this vital provision. And we’re growing!
Night Chef in Reading employer: Brakes Food Shop
Brakes is an exceptional employer that values diversity and inclusivity, fostering a supportive work culture where every team member can thrive. As a Night Chef in Reading, you'll enjoy competitive pay, generous annual leave, and access to various health and wellbeing services, all while contributing to a team dedicated to delivering quality food to colleagues and visitors. With opportunities for career progression and a commitment to employee growth, Brakes is the perfect place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the foodservice industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Night Chef in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! When you apply, reach out on social media or LinkedIn to connect with current employees. A friendly chat can give you insights into the company culture and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in the kitchen! If you get an interview, be ready to discuss your previous cooking experiences and how you handle busy shifts. Bring examples of your creativity in menu planning or any catering events you've helped with.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for a practical test! For a Night Chef role, they might want to see you in action. Brush up on your cooking techniques and food safety knowledge so you can impress them with your skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your customer service skills! Since you'll be interacting with colleagues and visitors, share any relevant experiences that showcase your ability to provide excellent service and maintain a positive attitude.
We think you need these skills to ace Night Chef in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Kitchen Skills:When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your previous kitchen experience. We want to know about the types of meals you've cooked and any special techniques you’ve mastered. This is your chance to shine!
Be Yourself:At StudySmarter, we care about who you are as a person, not just your CV. So, let your personality come through in your application. Share your passion for food and cooking, and don’t be afraid to show us your enthusiasm!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the Night Chef role. Mention specific skills that match the job description, like food safety knowledge or customer service experience. This shows us you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s easy, and you’ll get all the info you need right there. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brakes Food Shop
✨Know Your Ingredients
Brush up on your knowledge of food handling and safety standards, especially Level 3 in Food Safety Supervision. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you take food safety seriously and understand the importance of maintaining a clean kitchen.
✨Show Off Your Cooking Skills
Prepare to talk about your previous kitchen experience and any specific dishes you excel at. If you can, bring along a portfolio or photos of your culinary creations. This will help demonstrate your passion for cooking and your ability to handle the fast-paced environment they’re looking for.
✨Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Since this role involves working closely with others, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in a team before. Highlight your positive attitude and willingness to pitch in with cleaning and other tasks, as teamwork is key in a busy kitchen.
✨Be Ready for Customer Interaction
As you'll be operating a till and interacting with colleagues, brush up on your customer service skills. Think of scenarios where you’ve provided excellent service and be prepared to discuss how you would handle various situations, especially during busy shifts.
