At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Cooking Team to prepare high-quality meals using modern kitchen equipment.
- Company: Bigham's, a leading brand in chilled pre-prepared meals.
- Benefits: Earn over £33k per year, enjoy free meals, and receive discounts at popular retailers.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: No chef experience needed; we provide training and a consistent work schedule.
- Qualifications: A hands-on attitude and willingness to learn are essential.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 33000 £ per year.
The following content displays a map of the job's location - Charlie Bigham's Quarry Kitchen, Dulcote Quarry, Wells BA5 3FH.
Job Reference: charliebighams/TP/19158/513
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Permanent
£14.72–£15.33 per hour | £32k–£33k+ per year | Overtime £20+ per hour | 4 days on, 4 days off
Working Hours: 40
Closing Date: 20/06/2026
Job Category: Production/Manufacturing
Region / Division: Wells; Somerset
Package Description:
- Earn over £33,000 per year, with overtime paid at over £20 per hour.
- No chef experience needed – earn £32k+, work 4 on 4 off and follow simple step‑by‑step cooking processes in a structured kitchen environment.
- A competitive hourly rate of £14.72, rising to £15.33 after 3 months.
- Overtime paid at 1.5x your hourly rate (£20+ per hour).
- 28 days’ annual leave, increasing with service.
- Quarterly bonus.
- Free Bigham’s meals to take home.
- Discounts with popular high‑street retailers.
- Life assurance benefit.
- Subsidised canteen.
You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in training delivered by our Bigham’s Academy, helping you develop your skills, progress your career and increase your earnings.
This isn’t a traditional chef role. As a Cooking Team Member at Bigham’s, you’ll work in a modern kitchen environment using specialist equipment that guides you step‑by‑step through each recipe. No previous cooking experience is required - we’ll train you. If you’re hands‑on, reliable and enjoy working as part of a team in a busy environment, this could be a great fit.
Our Cooking Teams play a vital role in producing the high‑quality meals Bigham’s is known for, preparing ingredients and cooking them to the right standard ready for our Assembly Teams.
Working hours: 4 days on / 4 days off, 6am – 6pm. No late nights or split shifts — just a consistent rota.
Main Responsibilities:
- Operating machinery to cook ingredients at scale.
- Preparing and handling fresh ingredients.
- Carrying out quality checks to ensure our standards are met.
- Maintaining high hygiene standards and a clean workspace.
- Completing simple production records and logs.
- Supporting effective shift handovers.
- Reporting any equipment issues within your area.
The Ideal Candidate:
What you’ll need:
- Bring extraordinary – you enjoy working in a fast‑paced environment, take a positive approach and are happy to get stuck in.
- Bring people together – you work well as part of a team, communicate clearly and support those around you.
- Bring real care & attention – you pay attention to detail and take pride in doing a job properly.
You’ll also need:
- A good level of physical fitness, including the ability to lift up to 20kg.
- A reliable and hands‑on approach to work.
- A willingness to learn and develop in the role.
Experience in food production or a kitchen environment is helpful, but not essential - full training will be provided.
About The Company:
Inspired by his travels and love of cooking, Charlie Bigham set up shop in 1996 with the role aim of creating really delicious dishes. Twenty‑five years later Bigham’s is now the number one brand in the chilled pre‑prepared meal category, with over 50 dishes available in major supermarkets.
Food Production Operative – Cooking Team Member (4 on 4 off Days) in Wells employer: Charlie Bighams
Charlie Bigham's is an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary and a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With a structured training programme through Bigham’s Academy, team members can enhance their skills while enjoying a consistent 4 on 4 off shift pattern, generous benefits including free meals, and a vibrant team environment in the picturesque setting of Wells, Somerset.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Production Operative – Cooking Team Member (4 on 4 off Days) in Wells
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Charlie Bigham's and their values. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their cooking crew.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your answers! Think about common interview questions and how you can relate your experiences to the role of a Cooking Team Member. We want to hear how you bring extraordinary energy to a fast-paced environment!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork skills! Since this role is all about working together, be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in the past. We love candidates who can bring people together!
✨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 Bigham’s family. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Food Production Operative – Cooking Team Member (4 on 4 off Days) in Wells
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm:When you're writing your application, let your passion for food and teamwork shine through. We love seeing candidates who are excited about the role and ready to dive into the cooking process with us!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for. Even if you don’t have direct experience, focus on your willingness to learn and your ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate straightforward applications! Keep your writing clear and to the point, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our Cooking Team. Avoid jargon and stick to the essentials.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Charlie Bighams
✨Know the Company
Before your interview, take some time to research Charlie Bigham's and their values. Understanding their commitment to quality and teamwork will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role is all about working as part of a team, be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in the past. Highlighting your ability to communicate and support your teammates will make you stand out.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
Even if you don’t have previous cooking experience, express your eagerness to learn and develop your skills. Mention any relevant experiences where you’ve quickly picked up new tasks or adapted to new environments.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about handling fresh ingredients and maintaining hygiene standards. Think about how you would approach these tasks and be ready to discuss your attention to detail and commitment to quality.
