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- Tasks: Create delicious meals and ensure a welcoming kitchen environment for our community.
- Company: Join a people-first business dedicated to enriching lives every day.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, flexible hours, 28 days holiday, and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive team while doing what you love.
- Qualifications: Passion for food, customer service skills, and previous kitchen experience.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at our core; we welcome all applicants!
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Caterplus - More Than a Meal, It's a Community. At Bowles Lodge within Caterplus, we don't just serve food - we create warm, welcoming spaces where the over-55 community can connect, share, and enjoy great company over delicious meals. Every dish is made with care, fresh ingredients, and a big helping of heart.
What you'll be doing...
- Ensure the food is to the highest standard
- Ensure the kitchen and service area are always clean, well-presented, and well-stocked
- Keep up to date with menus and what food is on offer
- Offer a warm and friendly service
- Ensure COSHH, Food Safety, and Health & Safety are followed
Working Pattern: 2 Out of 7 Days | 14 Hours Per Week
What can you bring?
- Possess a passion for food
- Focused on the front line
- Genuine interest in customer service excellence
- Team player
- Previous experience of working in a kitchen
Brilliant Work Deserves Brilliant Perks! At Elior, we believe that when you love where you work, it shows. That’s why we make sure our team feels appreciated, supported, and set up for success!
- Free, tasty meals - Enjoy tasty, nutritious food on us while you work!
- Flexible working - including part time roles, because life doesn’t run on a 9-5 schedule.
- Plenty of Time to Unwind - 28 days of holiday, and after two years, enjoy even more with 31 days.
- Leave for life’s important moments - whether family, personal or unexpected.
- Give back time - paid volunteering days for the causes you care about.
- Room to grow - career development and learning opportunities for all stages of your career.
- Wellbeing first - mental health support and wellbeing perks.
- Financial security - pension schemes and life assurance.
- Exclusive discounts - save on entertainment, leisure, and even travel!
One small thing - we welcome you to apply using the name you feel most comfortable with! No need for legal names at this stage.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
We’re a people-first business with over 10,000 colleagues across the UK, serving everything from stadiums to hospitals, schools to workplaces. Our mission? To enrich lives everywhere, every day. And here’s the best part - 87% of our team say they’re proud to work here! Why? Because we create a place where you’re listened to, trusted, supported, and valued.
Not sure you match every single requirement? Apply anyway! Research shows that many people - especially women and those from underrepresented backgrounds - hold back unless they meet 100% of the criteria. But we hire for potential, not just experience. If you’re passionate and ready to grow, we want to hear from you!
We Celebrate You! At Elior, diversity and inclusion aren’t just policies, they’re who we are. We know that different perspectives make us stronger, and we’re dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to succeed.
Need any support or adjustments during the application process? Just let us know - we’re happy to help!
Ready to join us? Hit 'Apply Now' and let’s chat!
2nd Chef in Reading employer: Caterplus
Contact Detail:
Caterplus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2nd Chef in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, check out Caterplus and their values. This way, you can show how your passion for food and customer service aligns with their mission of creating a warm community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills! Since you're applying for a 2nd Chef position, be ready to discuss your kitchen experience and maybe even showcase your culinary talents during the interview. Bring some ideas for dishes that fit their menu!
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to chat about teamwork! Caterplus values team players, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a kitchen setting. Highlight how you contribute to a positive atmosphere while ensuring high standards.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Caterplus family. Let’s get you that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace 2nd Chef in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share any experiences or moments that highlight your passion for cooking and serving delicious meals. We want to see that you care about what you do!
Highlight Your Team Spirit: Being a 2nd Chef means working closely with others, so make sure to mention your teamwork skills. Talk about how you've collaborated in the kitchen before and how you contribute to a positive atmosphere. We value team players!
Keep It Clean and Professional: Just like a well-presented kitchen, your application should be tidy and professional. Make sure to proofread for any typos or errors, and keep your layout clear. A polished application shows us you take pride in your work!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our community and values!
How to prepare for a job interview at Caterplus
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the menu and the ingredients used in the dishes. Being able to discuss your favourite meals and how you would prepare them shows your passion for food and attention to detail, which is crucial for a 2nd Chef.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Emphasise your experience as a team player during the interview. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in a kitchen setting, as this role requires working closely with colleagues to create a warm and welcoming environment.
✨Safety First!
Brush up on your knowledge of COSHH, Food Safety, and Health & Safety regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure these standards are met in the kitchen, as this is vital for maintaining a safe and clean workspace.
✨Bring Your Warmth
Since the role involves customer service, think about how you can convey warmth and friendliness in your responses. Share anecdotes that highlight your ability to connect with others, especially in a community-focused setting like Bowles Lodge.