At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare high-quality ingredients and support the kitchen team in a busy hotel environment.
- Company: Family-owned hotel group with a warm, inclusive culture since 1868.
- Benefits: Live-in accommodation, exclusive discounts, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a fun, supportive work environment with team events and wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and create exceptional dining experiences for guests.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Prep Chef or similar role, strong knife skills, and food safety knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
We’re a family business through and through – family owned since 1868, family run and with a warm family welcome for guests and team alike. Our seven hotels are unique and set in three stunning Scottish locations. Some are big, some are small, but all offer fantastic food and drink, cozy beds and a wealth of things to do. We offer an expansive range of benefits to help you make the most of life outside of work, and we’re committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels heard and valued. We treat our guests like family, and we support our people the same way. If you’re someone who lives our values of Be Creative, Be Curious, Be Thoughtful, Be Positive and Be You, you’ll fit right in.
We’re set right at the heart of the Scottish Borders and offer a great place to relax, unwind and magically shut off from the pressures of modern life. We’ve been welcoming guests for well over 100 years but today is home to 132 bedrooms, 3 places to eat, 6 function spaces, leisure club, spa and oodles of outdoor space.
About the role
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Senior Sous Chef - Larder Prep Chef to join our culinary team in a busy 4-star hotel. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing high-quality ingredients for all food outlets, including the restaurant, bar, room service, banqueting and breakfast operations. This role requires excellent organisation, a passion for food, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality, hygiene and presentation.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare vegetables, meats, seafood, sauces, stocks and other ingredients according to hotel recipes and specifications.
- Ensure all mise en place is completed accurately and on time to support daily service.
- Assist chefs with food preparation across all kitchen sections as required.
- Receive, inspect and correctly store deliveries following FIFO stock rotation procedures.
- Label, date and store all food items in accordance with food safety regulations.
- Maintain a clean, organised and hygienic preparation area at all times.
- Follow HACCP, food hygiene and health & safety procedures.
- Monitor food quality, freshness and portion control to minimise waste and maintain cost efficiency.
- Report stock shortages, equipment faults and maintenance issues to senior chefs.
- Support banquet, conference and event preparation when required.
- Work collaboratively with the kitchen brigade to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
What we need from you
- Previous experience as a Prep Chef, sous chef or senior chef de partie.
- Passionate about food and hospitality, with a commitment to delivering high-quality dishes.
- Strong knife skills and knowledge of both basic and advanced food preparation techniques.
- Good understanding of food safety, allergen management and HACCP procedures.
- Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or equivalent) desirable.
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining excellent attention to detail.
- Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to maintain high standards in a fast-paced kitchen.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with a collaborative approach to working with colleagues.
- Reliable, punctual and professional in all aspects of work.
- Positive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop.
- Flexible to work a variety of shifts, including evenings, weekends and public holidays.
What you’ll get from us
- Live-in Accommodation – Affordable housing with bills included may be available. Availability and rates (set by HMRC) can be discussed at interview.
- Exclusive Discounts – Enjoy 30% off food, drinks and retail, discounted leisure membership and reduced rates on hotel activities.
- Team Rate Hotel Stays – Take time to recharge with discounted stays at all of our hotels from just £30 per night.
- Refer a Friend Bonus – Earn up to £250-£500 for each successful team member or manager which you recommend to us.
- Guest Mention Rewards – Earn £5 every time a guest gives you a positive shoutout in a review.
- A Friendly & Supportive Team – Work in a fun, welcoming environment where team spirit and well-being are a priority.
- Career Progression – With seven hotels, multiple departments, and a wide range of roles, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to grow and explore new career paths.
- Wellbeing Support – Get 24/7 confidential support via the Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme, covering mental health, finances, and more.
- Team Events & Annual Staff Party – We love to celebrate our people! Enjoy team events throughout the year and a legendary annual staff party.
Please note: This opportunity does not qualify for sponsorship. To be considered for this role, you must have the right to work in the UK.
Senior Sous Chef - Larder Prep Chef in Peebles employer: Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels
At Crieff Hydro, we pride ourselves on being a family-run business that has been welcoming guests for over 150 years in the stunning heart of Scotland. Our inclusive culture fosters a supportive environment where team members are valued and encouraged to grow, with ample opportunities for career progression across our seven unique hotels. With benefits like live-in accommodation, exclusive discounts, and a focus on well-being, we ensure that our employees feel as cherished as our guests.
Contact Details:
Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sous Chef - Larder Prep Chef in Peebles
✨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 Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels
Don't be shy about reaching out to Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels 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 Senior Sous Chef - Larder Prep Chef in Peebles
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 Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels 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 Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels
✨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!
