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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals and oversee menu changes while ensuring top-notch hygiene standards.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a leader in food services for Defence and government sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for career progression and recognition.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values individuality and delivers exceptional customer service every day.
- Qualifications: Passion for food, relevant qualifications, and experience in a similar role are essential.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a commitment to diversity make this an exciting opportunity.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Chef – RAF Cranwell (ESS – Compass Group)
Location: RAF Cranwell
Pay Rate: £14.35 per hour
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Contract: Full-time, site-based
Shift Pattern: 5 days over 7 (Early & Late shifts)
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Chef to join our catering team at RAF Cranwell, delivering high-quality meals to around 180 Service Personnel each day.
You will play a key role in preparing and serving fresh, nutritious meals across breakfast, lunch, and evening service, working as part of a dedicated team of 8 in a fast-paced military catering environment.
Shift Pattern
- Early Shift: 06:00 – 14:00
- Late Shift: 12:00 – 20:00
- 5 days out of 7
Meal Service Times
- Breakfast: 06:00 – 08:00
- Lunch: 12:00 – 13:00
- Evening Meal: 18:30 – 20:00
The Team
You’ll be part of a well-structured catering team of 8, working collaboratively to ensure consistent food quality and excellent service for Service Personnel.
What We’re Looking For
- ✅ Previous experience in a similar chef or catering role – essential
- 🎓 Relevant qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 2 or equivalent) – desirable
- 🍽 Strong knowledge of food hygiene, health & safety standards
- 🤝 Ability to work well as part of a team in a structured environment
- ⏱ Reliable, flexible, and able to work early and late shifts
What We Offer
- ✨ £14.35 per hour (37.5 hours per week)
- 🍴 Free meals while on shift
- 🚗 Free on-site parking
- 👕 Uniform provided
- 📈 Career development and training opportunities with ESS – Compass Group
- 🤍 Supportive team culture within a stable, secure site
We ensure you\’re rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Free meals
- Onsite free car parking
- Subsidised gym membership
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury\’s, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
Please note: This role is contracted to weeks per year
About Us
Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.
Job Reference: com/0801/95096001/52781058/SU #Defence
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive – because diversity is our strength!
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Chef employer: Chartwells Independent
Contact Detail:
Chartwells Independent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Showcase your passion for food by sharing your culinary experiences on social media or a personal blog. This not only highlights your skills but also demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role, which is something we value highly at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with other chefs and professionals in the industry. Attend local food events or workshops to connect with like-minded individuals who can provide insights or even referrals to opportunities within our company.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the latest food trends and dietary requirements. Being knowledgeable about current culinary practices will not only impress us but also show that you are proactive and committed to delivering exceptional food experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you handle customer feedback and implement changes in your cooking. We appreciate candidates who can demonstrate adaptability and a commitment to improving food services based on client needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Chef as outlined in the job description. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with preparing high-quality food and overseeing kitchen operations.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your culinary skills and experiences. Include specific examples of menu changes you've implemented, customer feedback you've acted on, and any supervisory roles you've held in previous positions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and exceptional customer service. Mention your qualifications, such as your City & Guilds or NVQ certifications, and express your enthusiasm for working with Defence and contributing to their food services.
Highlight Your Flexibility: Since the role requires a flexible approach to working hours, be sure to mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts. This shows your commitment and adaptability, which are key traits for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartwells Independent
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for cooking and creating exceptional food experiences. Share specific examples of dishes you've created or how you've delighted customers in the past.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership Skills
Since the role involves supervising a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style. Share experiences where you successfully managed a kitchen team or resolved conflicts to maintain a positive working environment.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
The job requires a flexible approach to working hours and menu changes. Be ready to talk about times when you've adapted to new challenges or quickly changed your plans to meet customer needs.
✨Know Your Hygiene Standards
Familiarise yourself with food hygiene regulations and be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance in the kitchen. Mention any relevant certifications you hold, such as a Food Hygiene certificate.
