At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals and manage catering operations in a sustainable eco-centre.
- Company: Join the Centre for Alternative Technology, a leading environmental charity.
- Benefits: Enjoy free lunches, discounts, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on sustainability while honing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for cooking and commitment to high-quality service.
The predicted salary is between 25155 - 25155 £ per year.
About CAT
The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is an internationally renowned environmental charity and world‑leading eco centre, based near Machynlleth in Mid Wales. It provides inspiration, education and training in solutions to the climate and biodiversity emergency, including a visitor centre, residential and online courses, vocational training and postgraduate degrees.
Job Details
Location: CAT’s site in Llwyngwern, near Machynlleth
Hours: Variable – part time, working days spread over 7 days on a rota basis, including evenings and early mornings. Split shifts may be required.
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: £25,155 p.a. pro rata
Benefits
- Free cooked lunch and free hot drinks from the café when working at the CAT eco centre
- 40% discount on retail goods purchased from CAT
- Opportunities for CPD training, qualifications and professional memberships funded by CAT
- Opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
- Cycle to Work scheme
- 5% pension contribution
- Generous maternity and paternity entitlement and Death in Service benefit
- 2 hours per month for general health & wellbeing and 2 hours per month for Welsh language tuition
Role Overview
The Catering team aims to provide a high‑quality service to a varied customer base while operating under an ethical and sustainable trading policy. As a Chef you will assist in the operation and development of the café and catering services to a high‑quality, efficient and profitable standard, receiving excellent customer feedback and operating within CAT’s environmental and procurement policies.
Main Responsibilities
- Assist with overseeing and developing all catering operations
- Assist with setting appropriate standards
- Assist with continual review and development of quality and range of products and services to increase profitability and customer satisfaction
- Provide appropriate cover for the catering services at CAT
- Prepare, maintain and develop high standards of food, service and presentation of meals and snacks
- Be creative and inventive with food presentation for different customers and their varying catering requirements
- Ensure a good range of freshly prepared meals and snacks are available for service on the counter areas of the restaurant
- Maintain high standards of cooking and serving of meals for both customers and large groups
- Be versatile and resourceful in providing a wide range of catering services to customers, including self‑service provision for groups, buffets or pre‑booked meals and menu planning
- Facilitate the smooth and efficient day‑to‑day running of the CAT café, including serving and liaising with customers, front‑of‑house operations, till operation, counter sales and cashing up, kitchen operations, keeping catering areas safe and clean, complying with HACCP and all environmental health requirements
- Assist with replenishing and maintaining appropriate catering stock levels
- Assist with staff training, development and motivation
- Ensure compliance with CAT’s policies including waste management and health & safety
- Assist with maintenance of the fabric and facilities of the restaurant as part of the restaurant team
- Perform any other appropriate duties as defined by the Plant‑Based Sustainable Catering Manager
Chef in Machynlleth employer: Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant eco-centre dedicated to environmental sustainability. With a strong focus on employee growth through funded training and qualifications, a supportive work culture, and generous benefits including free meals and discounts, CAT fosters a rewarding environment for its staff. Located in the picturesque Mid Wales, employees enjoy a fulfilling role that contributes to meaningful change while being part of a passionate team committed to tackling climate and biodiversity challenges.
Contact Details:
Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Machynlleth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the CAT vibe! Before your interview, check out their website and social media. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect with them and show you're genuinely interested in being part of their eco-friendly team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your culinary skills! If you're applying for the Chef position, be ready to showcase your cooking techniques. Maybe even whip up a dish that reflects CAT's sustainable ethos to impress them during any practical assessments.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips about the interview process and what it’s really like to work at CAT, which can give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the CAT family and contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef in Machynlleth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Sustainability:When writing your application, let us know why you're passionate about sustainability and how it aligns with our mission at CAT. We love seeing candidates who share our values and are excited about making a difference!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous experience in catering or food preparation. Whether it's working in a café or a restaurant, we want to see how your skills can contribute to our team and the high standards we aim for.
Be Creative in Your Presentation:Just like in cooking, creativity counts! Use your application to demonstrate your unique style and personality. A well-structured and engaging application can really help you stand out from the crowd.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the types of ingredients and dishes that align with CAT's sustainable ethos. Be ready to discuss how you can incorporate local and seasonal produce into your menu ideas.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Prepare to share examples of your creative food presentation and menu planning. Think about how you can adapt meals for different dietary requirements and be ready to suggest innovative ideas that could enhance customer satisfaction.
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you grasp the responsibilities of the Chef position, especially around maintaining high standards of food quality and service. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle busy periods and ensure smooth operations in the café.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Since you'll be part of a catering team, highlight your experience working collaboratively. Share examples of how you've trained or motivated staff in the past, and how you can contribute to a positive team environment at CAT.
