At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to prepare delicious food in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Company: COOK, a family-owned B Corp that values sustainability and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy paid breaks, free lunches, and unique perks like birthday leave and staff discounts.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and team events.
- Why this job: Be part of a caring team where your passion for food can shine.
- Qualifications: Experience in a kitchen is a plus, but we value potential over perfection.
Join our Cook Family working in our Food Preparation department
Location: Sittingbourne, Kent - COOK Pastry & Pies
Hours: Monday - Friday 06am – 2pm
Pay rate: £12.60 per hour (yes this includes paid breaks)
Are you passionate about food and enjoy working in a fast-paced, hands-on environment? We’re looking for reliable, detail-oriented individuals to join our team as a Kitchen Prep Assistant.
The Role
- Carefully cutting, weighing, and measuring ingredients based on clear instructions.
- Preparing meat, seafood, and poultry by cutting or grinding, ready for cooking.
- Chopping and prepping vegetables – you’ll need to be confident using sharp knives.
- Keeping the kitchen clean and tidy, including surfaces, utensils, equipment, and dishes.
- Following all food safety and hygiene regulations to maintain a safe work environment.
- Supporting the team with other kitchen tasks as needed – no two days are the same!
Good to Have
- Experience as a chef or working in a busy kitchen
- NVQ level 1 and 2 (or equivalent in catering) preferred but not required
If you tick most of these boxes but not all—don’t stress. We’re all about potential.
Excellent Benefits including
- Paid breaks
- Free cooked from fresh lunch for all employees
- Free car park
- Paid leave on your birthdays, moving house, becoming a grandparent, or your child starts school for the first time
- Staff profit share
- Wellbeing program
- 30% staff discount
- Access to CookieJar Smart Spending discounts and free food perks
- Team meals, events, and away days
- Be part of a B-Corp-certified business that values sustainability, people, and the community
What Cook is About
We’re a proudly independent, family-owned B Corp, which basically means we care. A lot. About our food. About our people. And about doing the right thing—even when it’s not the easy thing.
Our vision for COOK has always been that we are a place where EVERYONE is welcome. We want everyone to feel like they belong at COOK. We all have different roles, different abilities, and different personalities. By collaborating, we can do remarkable things. Whatever your story, if you would like to grow with COOK, please apply.
Food Production - Prep Mon-Fri 6am -2pm in Sittingbourne employer: Cookfood
At COOK, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture where every team member is valued. Located in Sittingbourne, Kent, our Food Production department provides not only competitive pay and generous benefits like free meals and paid leave for special occasions but also opportunities for personal growth within a B-Corp-certified business that prioritises sustainability and community. Join us to be part of a family that truly cares about its people and the quality of food we create together.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Production - Prep Mon-Fri 6am -2pm in Sittingbourne
✨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 Cookfood. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Cookfood
Don't be shy about reaching out to Cookfood 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 Food Production - Prep Mon-Fri 6am -2pm in Sittingbourne
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 Cookfood 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 Cookfood
✨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!
