At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare exceptional meals and support the Lead Chef in a vibrant zoo environment.
- Company: Join Chester Zoo, a renowned conservation charity with award-winning dining venues.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, staff zoo passes, and discounts on various services.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, excellent training opportunities, and a supportive work culture await you.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team making a real impact in conservation while honing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Previous chef experience and Level 2 Food Safety qualification required; customer service experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 30000 £ per year.
Chef de Partie
Our venues, all held within our 128 acre site of stunning gardens, will jointly operate a turnover of £12.5 million. As a not for profit, everything we make is ploughed into conservation both here in the UK and around the world. Your role has a huge part to play in delivering our mission.
The Role
Food & Beverage at the zoo includes our award winning British gastro-pub The Oakfield, The Square, as well as three other restaurants, cafes, and coffee houses. Under the direction of our Sous Chef and Lead Chef you will be responsible for your own section, preparing exceptional meals for our many zoo visitors and members.
You will:
- Support the Lead Chef and Sous Chef in helping to produce food to the highest standards which ensures Chester Zoo maintains its world class reputation
- Train and mentor Line Chefs and Seasonal team members to ensure effective and efficient work practice
- Work collaboratively with the front of house team to ensure seamless delivery and a world class customer service
- Adhere to health and hygiene policies, standard operating procedures and safe working practices including food safety systems and associated legislation (for example HACCP)
- Under direction from the Lead Chef, ensure correct stock levels on a day-to-day basis, place order requests to be processed and accept deliveries, ensuring they are correct and rotate stock as required
- You’ll be working a variety of shifts on a rota basis, including weekends and Bank Holidays, as well mornings and evenings for events as required.
What’s in it for you?
This role offers the opportunity to work within a unique venue setting, supporting our vibrant and varied events calendar. Alongside working core zoo opening hours, you’ll help deliver a number of evening events each year, from elegant weddings to high-profile corporate functions and seasonal late-night openings. Your contract hours are 40 per week, and you'll be paid overtime for all agreed overtime.
- Permanent contract
- £27,900 per annum
- Overtime available - this will be paid for agreed additional hours.
- 33 days annual leave
- Staff family pass - so you can visit the zoo during your time off
- Multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family.
- Access to healthcare plan
- Complimentary access to a variety of staff events and special experiences held throughout the year.
- Generous employer contributory pension scheme
Our Requirements
- Previous chef experience, preferably gained in a leading British Gastro-pub or events venue
- Able to demonstrate understanding of food types and production methods
- Level 2 Food Safety qualification
- A ‘can do’ and flexible attitude to work
- Good communication skills
Although not essential, the following would be desirable:
- Customer service experience
Please be aware we reserve the right to close our vacancies earlier than the listed date if we have received a high level of applications. We would recommend that if you do wish to be considered that you complete the application as promptly as possible
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Chef de Partie in Chester employer: Chester-Zoo
Chester Zoo is an exceptional employer that prioritises a vibrant work culture and the growth of its employees. As a Food & Beverage Supervisor, you will not only lead a passionate team in delivering outstanding guest experiences but also benefit from competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and a comprehensive healthcare plan, all while working in a unique and inspiring environment dedicated to conservation and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef de Partie in Chester
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Chester Zoo's culinary offerings, especially The Oakfield and The Square. Understanding their menu and style will help you demonstrate your passion for the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Chester Zoo if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with training and mentoring junior chefs. Highlighting your leadership skills will show that you're ready to support the Lead Chef and Sous Chef effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your knowledge of food safety standards and practices. Since adherence to health and hygiene policies is crucial, demonstrating your commitment to these standards can set you apart.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef de Partie in Chester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in the culinary field, especially in British gastro-pubs or events venues. Emphasise any specific roles where you supported senior chefs or trained junior staff.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and customer service. Mention why you want to work at Chester Zoo specifically and how your skills align with their values and mission.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Include any relevant qualifications, such as your Level 2 Food Safety certification. If you have additional training or courses related to food preparation or safety, be sure to mention those as well.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills:Since the role involves working collaboratively with both kitchen and front-of-house teams, provide examples of past experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team to deliver exceptional service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chester-Zoo
✨Showcase Your Culinary Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in the kitchen, especially in a British gastro-pub or events venue. Bring examples of dishes you've created or worked on, and be ready to explain your cooking techniques and food production methods.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork
Since the role involves working closely with both the kitchen and front of house teams, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues in past roles, particularly in high-pressure situations.
✨Emphasise Food Safety Knowledge
Make sure to mention your Level 2 Food Safety qualification and any relevant experience you have with health and hygiene policies. This shows that you take food safety seriously and understand the importance of maintaining high standards.
✨Express Your Passion for Conservation
Chester Zoo is an international conservation charity, so expressing your enthusiasm for wildlife and conservation can set you apart. Share any personal experiences or interests related to nature and how they align with the zoo's mission.
