At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in creating seasonal menus and deliver high-quality food experiences for visitors.
- Company: Calanais Visitor Centre, dedicated to preserving archaeological heritage and enhancing visitor experiences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, personal development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to respect and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a transformative project and make a real impact on visitor experiences with your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy kitchen and a passion for local, seasonal ingredients.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.
Unique and exciting opportunity for a passionate and experienced chef to assist in the development of the catering offer and enhance the overall visitor experience at the Calanais Visitor Centre.
About the Calanais Visitor Centre
At the Calanais Visitor Centre, we are committed to preserving, researching, and sharing the rich archaeological heritage of the Calanais Standing Stones. Our vision is to create an outstanding visitor experience while maintaining a deep connection between the site, the community, and the wider world. As we embark on a transformative redevelopment, we are looking for an Assistant Chef to deliver a high-quality food service to enhance our visitors’ experience.
The Calanais Visitor Centre is undergoing an ambitious £10.1 million redevelopment and will reopen in July 2026 as a world-class, 5-star visitor attraction and thriving community hub. This is a unique and exciting opportunity for an experienced chef to assist in the development of the catering offer at the Calanais Visitor Centre. You’ll be passionate about taking local seasonal ingredients and making high quality food prepared on-site, taking pride in ensuring every dish meets your high expectations and enhances the overall visitor experience.
The core catering offer will be through the Centre’s onsite café, providing a welcoming environment for visitors and locals alike to enjoy good quality, seasonal food and drink. In addition to the café there will be the opportunity to develop an offer for onsite functions, within the Centre’s function suite and pop‑up events such as evening dining experiences.
This is a full‑time role, working hours will vary throughout the year, with an average of 37.5 hours per week across the year. Regular working hours will be throughout the daytime, however there is a requirement to work flexibly when required, including evenings, early mornings and across the week (Monday‑Saturday). The salary for this post is £30,000‑£35,000 per annum, which is negotiable dependent on experience.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Assist in the planning of seasonal menus using fresh, seasonal and local ingredients, reflecting the heritage and culinary significance of the area.
- Prepare menus including breakfasts, lunches, cakes, children’s meals and catering for functions.
- Prepare and cook to order, ensuring quality, consistency and speed of service.
- Cater for occasional evenings and special events.
- Prepare menus for pop‑up offers such as an onsite catering trailer.
Kitchen Operations Management
- Manage the kitchen and maintain standards during the Head Chef’s absence.
- Assist in supervising and mentoring junior kitchen staff and seasonal team members.
- Ensure the kitchen operates efficiently, maintaining a culture of professionalism, kindness, and care.
Inventory and Cost Control
- Support the Head Chef in minimising food waste and maintaining stock levels.
Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and allergen management in line with Food Standards Scotland.
Other
- Work alongside the Visitor Operations Manager and Food & Beverage Supervisor to ensure a high standard of customer service throughout the visitor experience.
- Operating within a culture of respect, kindness, and professionalism as part of the wider Visitor Centre team.
- Work with the Maintenance Manager to ensure a safe environment for both staff and visitors.
- Commit to continuous professional development.
- Deputise in the absence of the Head Chef.
Person Specification
Essential Skills, Experience and Qualifications
- Experience in a busy kitchen environment.
- Proven experience as Assistant Chef, or looking to step into this culinary role.
- In‑depth knowledge of cooking methods, ingredients and kitchen equipment.
- Excellent organisational, communication and time management skills.
- Knowledge of dietary trends with ability to cater for a variety of requirements.
Personal Attributes
- Creative flair in hot food preparation and baking skills.
- A sharp eye for food presentation and consistency.
- A good understanding of food safety and hygiene regulation.
What We Offer
- Fair Work Scotland Accreditation – Commitment to being a Living Wage employer and promoting Fair Work principles.
- Personal & Professional Development – Ongoing training, leadership development, and opportunities for career growth.
- Work-Life Balance – A flexible and supportive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing.
- Recognition & Reward – A culture that values contributions and celebrates achievements.
- An Inclusive & Supportive Workplace – A welcoming and dynamic environment where employees feel valued and empowered to grow.
ASSISTANT CHEF employer: Calanais
At the Calanais Visitor Centre, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values diversity and fosters a culture of respect and inclusivity. As we prepare for our exciting redevelopment into a world-class visitor attraction, we offer our employees opportunities for personal and professional growth, a commitment to work-life balance, and a supportive environment where creativity and passion for local cuisine can thrive. Join us in enhancing the visitor experience while enjoying competitive salaries and a dynamic workplace that celebrates your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land ASSISTANT CHEF
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Calanais Visitor Centre! Research their mission and values, and think about how your culinary skills can enhance their visitor experience. This will help you tailor your approach when you get the chance to chat with them.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend local food events or workshops where you might bump into people connected to the Centre. Building relationships can give you an edge and show your passion for the community.
✨Tip Number 3
When you land that interview, be ready to showcase your creativity! Bring examples of seasonal menus you've created or dishes you've prepared. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate how you can contribute to their exciting redevelopment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace ASSISTANT CHEF
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for cooking and local ingredients shine through. We want to see how excited you are about enhancing the visitor experience with your culinary skills!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in busy kitchen environments. We’re looking for someone who can manage kitchen operations and mentor junior staff, so don’t forget to mention any leadership roles you've had.
Be Specific About Your Skills:In your cover letter, be specific about your cooking methods and any dietary trends you’re familiar with. We love creativity, so share examples of how you’ve used seasonal ingredients in your dishes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the Calanais Visitor Centre!
How to prepare for a job interview at Calanais
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with local seasonal ingredients and how they can enhance the dishes you’ll be preparing. Be ready to discuss your favourite ingredients and how you would incorporate them into the menu at the Calanais Visitor Centre.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Prepare to share examples of your culinary creativity, especially in hot food preparation and baking. Think about unique dishes you've created or how you've adapted recipes to cater for dietary trends, and be ready to discuss these during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since you'll be working closely with other kitchen staff and the wider Visitor Centre team, highlight your experience in mentoring junior staff and maintaining a positive kitchen environment. Share stories that showcase your ability to work collaboratively and supportively.
✨Emphasise Food Safety Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of food safety, hygiene regulations, and allergen management. This is crucial for the role, so having specific examples of how you've maintained high standards in previous positions will impress your interviewers.
