At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve delicious meals while supporting a dynamic kitchen team.
- Company: Join ESS, part of Compass Group, serving the UK's Armed Forces.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, on-site parking, and access to wellness support.
- Other info: Great opportunities for career growth and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Kickstart your culinary career in a supportive and structured environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in food preparation and a passion for high-quality cooking.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
We're looking for a passionate and reliable Cook/Chef to join our catering team at Longmoor Camp. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop your culinary career in a busy, structured environment. Working with a supportive team, you'll play a key role in delivering nutritious, high‑quality meals that make a real impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and serve fresh, high-quality meals across breakfast, lunch, and dinner services
- Support day‑to‑day kitchen operations in a fast‑paced environment
- Maintain high standards of food hygiene, safety, and cleanliness
- Follow recipes, portion control, and service specifications
- Work collaboratively with the wider team to deliver a smooth service
- Represent ESS with a positive and professional approach
What You'll Get
- Training and development opportunities
- Free meals on shift
- Free on‑site parking
- Uniform provided
- Site closed over Christmas
- Pension and life assurance
- Access to wellbeing support (Digital GP, mental health, financial support)
- Discounts and recognition schemes
- Stable, supportive team environment
Qualifications
- Kitchen or food preparation experience required
- A genuine passion for food and strong attention to detail
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Ability to thrive in a structured, high-volume environment
- Reliable, flexible, and committed to high standards
- A positive, hands‑on attitude
At ESS, part of Compass Group, we're proud to make a real difference every day. By providing high‑quality food and support services to the UK's Armed Forces, we help power those who serve because we know great food and great people go hand in hand.
Additional Benefits
- Free meals
- Onsite free car parking
- 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
- Unwind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
Chef/ Cook in Portsmouth employer: Compass Group PLC
At ESS, part of Compass Group, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and structured environment for our culinary team at Longmoor Camp. With opportunities for training and development, free meals on shift, and a range of wellbeing support, we ensure our employees thrive both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact by serving high-quality meals to the UK's Armed Forces.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef/ Cook in Portsmouth
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Compass Group PLC. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group PLC
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group PLC directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef/ Cook in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Compass Group PLC and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group PLC
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
