Chef

Full-Time 25985 - 25985 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our kitchen team to prepare and present delicious seasonal dishes.
  • Company: WWT Slimbridge, a passionate organisation dedicated to wetland conservation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, free entry to centres, and a contributory pension scheme.
  • Other info: Flexible working hours with no split shifts and opportunities for career growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on the planet while working in a fun, friendly environment.
  • Qualifications: Previous kitchen experience and a passion for food presentation.

The predicted salary is between 25985 - 25985 £ per year.

WWT Slimbridge (Centre) is looking for a Chef to join our busy catering team. This is a full-time, paid contract position with 37.5 hours per week, following a 5/7 shift pattern including weekends and bank holidays.

Location: South West

Salary: £25,985 per annum

About The Role

As a Chef, you will be part of our kitchen team, preparing and presenting food to order in a fast-paced environment. You will cook seasonal menus for visitors, enforce food safety management systems, and manage waste and stock levels to help the catering team hit their targets.

Working at Slimbridge allows you to make a difference in conserving our planet. You’ll be part of an organisation dedicated to protecting wetland habitats and saving species from extinction while inspiring visitors and providing outstanding hospitality.

About You

  • Some previous experience of working in a commercial kitchen
  • A passion for food and pride in presentation
  • A good working knowledge of food safety management systems
  • Enjoy being part of a friendly and motivated team

Benefits

  • Wake up every day knowing your work is helping to restore wetlands and our world
  • Be surrounded and inspired by a team of passionate, dedicated people
  • 33 days annual leave (which goes up to 38 days after 5 years of service) – this includes bank holidays and flexibility to take those days whenever you want
  • Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
  • Free car parking and secure bike storage areas
  • Colleague discount on shopping and memberships
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Contributory pension scheme
  • Life assurance of three times your salary
  • Independent personal, workplace and financial advice from our Employee Assistance Programme

WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit.

Chef employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)

WWT Slimbridge is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for chefs to contribute to environmental conservation while working in a vibrant and supportive team. With generous benefits such as 33 days of annual leave, free entry to wetland centres, and a commitment to employee growth, you will find a fulfilling career that aligns with your passion for food and nature in the beautiful South West.

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Contact Details:

British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Chef

Get a Taste of the Scene

Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!

Network at Food Festivals

Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!

Show Off Your Skills

Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA). It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)

Don't be shy about reaching out to British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!

We think you need these skills to ace Chef

Food Preparation
Food Presentation
Knowledge of Food Safety Management Systems
Stock Management
Waste Management
Teamwork
Time Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.

Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!

Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!

Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!

How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)

Show Your People Skills

In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!

Know Your Menu Inside Out

Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!

Demonstrate Your Team Spirit

Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'

Get Ready for a Practical Test

In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!