At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve delicious food while overseeing menu changes and maintaining hygiene standards.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a leader in food service for Defence and government sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, opportunities for progression, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values individuality and delivers exceptional customer service.
- Qualifications: Passion for food, supervisory experience, and relevant culinary qualifications required.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available; perfect for those looking to grow in the culinary field.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 Β£ per year.
Salary: Β£13.65 per hourShift hours: Full Time
Chef β RM Bickleigh (ESS β Compass Group)
Location: RM Bickleigh
Pay Rate: Β£13.65 per hour
Hours: 40 per week (full-time, site-based)
Shift Pattern: 5 days over 7 β early and late shifts
About the Role
ESS β Compass Group is seeking a dedicated and experienced Chef to join our catering team at RM Bickleigh . You will play a key role in preparing and serving high-quality meals for approximately 150 Service Personnel each day.
This is a busy, hands-on role within a close-knit team of 6 , where flexibility, strong kitchen standards, and excellent teamwork are essential.
Please note: RM Bickleigh is in a remote location with no public transport links , so reliable access to your own transport is important.
Meal Service Times (MondayβFriday)
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Breakfast: 07:15 β 08:15
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Lunch: 12:30 β 13:30
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Evening Meal: 19:00 β 20:00
Weekend
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Brunch: 10:30 β 12:00
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Evening Meal: 18:00 β 18:30
Brunch: 10:30 β 12:00
Evening Meal: 18:00 β 18:30
Shift Pattern (5 days over 7)
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Early: 06:00 β 15:00
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Late: 12:00 β 20:30
What Weβre Looking For
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βοΈ Previous experience in a similar chef or catering role (essential)
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βοΈ Relevant qualifications (e.g., NVQ Level 2) β desirable
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Strong understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety
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Ability to work effectively in a high-volume, team-focused kitchen
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Flexible, reliable, and positive approach to work
What We Offer
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Β£13.65 per hour / 40 hours per week
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Free parking
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Meal allowance
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Uniform provided
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Supportive team culture and opportunities for development with ESS β Compass Group
We ensure you\βre rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- 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\βs, 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
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/0512/ / /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 β because diversity is our strength!
Reference: com/0512/ / /SULocation: Plymouth
Chef - Full Time - Plymouth employer: Compass Group
Contact Detail:
Compass Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Chef - Full Time - Plymouth
β¨Tip Number 1
Showcase your culinary creativity! When you network or speak with potential employers, share your unique food concepts or menu ideas. This demonstrates your passion and ability to innovate, which is highly valued in a Chef role.
β¨Tip Number 2
Get familiar with the company culture at Defence. Research their values and mission, and think about how your personal philosophy aligns with theirs. This will help you articulate why you're a great fit during any informal conversations or interviews.
β¨Tip Number 3
Connect with current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for standing out in the application process. This insider knowledge can give you a significant edge.
β¨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your supervisory experience in detail. Think of specific examples where you've led a team or improved kitchen operations. Being able to demonstrate your leadership skills will be crucial in landing this Chef position.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef - Full Time - Plymouth
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant culinary experience, especially in roles similar to a Chef. Include specific achievements, such as menu development or customer satisfaction improvements, to showcase your skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for food and customer service. Mention your qualifications, such as your City & Guilds or NVQ certifications, and how they align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Creativity: If possible, include examples of your previous work or creative menu ideas in your application. This could be in the form of a portfolio or simply describing your innovative approaches in your cover letter.
Highlight Team Leadership Experience: Since the role requires supervising a team, emphasise any leadership experience you have. Discuss how you've successfully managed kitchen staff or improved team dynamics in past positions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group
β¨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 prepared that delighted customers, as this will demonstrate your passion and commitment to quality.
β¨Highlight Your Team Leadership Skills
Since the role involves supervising a team, be prepared to discuss your experience in leading and motivating others. Share instances where you successfully managed a kitchen team or implemented changes that improved service.
β¨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Food Hygiene
As compliance with food handling and hygiene regulations is crucial, be ready to talk about your Food Hygiene certificate and any relevant practices you follow in the kitchen. This shows your commitment to maintaining high standards.
β¨Be Ready to Discuss Menu Innovations
The job involves overseeing menu changes and creating new concepts. Prepare to share your ideas on how you would enhance the menu or improve food services based on customer feedback, showcasing your creativity and adaptability.