At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve high-quality meals in a dynamic kitchen environment.
- Company: Join ESS, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, supporting military and government services.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free meals, gym access, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with no late nights and alternate weekends off.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values great food and excellent service while making a difference.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering, strong communication skills, and a passion for food.
Pay & Hours: £14.25 per hour, 40‑hour contract (5 days over 7), Alternate weekends off. No split shifts or late nights.
Shift Options:
- Early Shift: 05:00 – 13:30
- Late Shift: 10:30 – 19:00
Benefits:
- Set leave periods: 2 weeks at Easter, 3 weeks in Summer, 2 weeks at Christmas
- Uniform provided
- Free meals while on shift
- Free on‑site parking
- Accessible via train or bus
- Free use of gym and swimming pool
- Access to Perks at Work discounts platform
- Aviva Healthcare plan
- Company pension schemes
- Holiday purchase scheme
- Career development and progression opportunities within ESS
About The Role:
We’re looking for a skilled and motivated Chef to join our catering team at CTCRM Lympstone. You’ll prepare and serve nutritious, high‑quality meals for service personnel, ensuring every dish meets our standards. Join ESS, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, and enjoy a supportive environment that values teamwork, balance, and growth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare, cook, and present meals to a high standard
- Support menu planning and food ordering
- Maintain food safety and hygiene standards
- Work collaboratively within a professional kitchen team
- Ensure smooth and efficient service during all meal periods
- Contribute to a positive, team‑focused environment
What We’re Looking For:
- Previous experience in a chef or catering role
- Passion for great food and quality service
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Flexibility to work early or late shifts, including alternate weekends
- NVQ Level 2/3 or City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 (desirable)
- Food Hygiene Certificate
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. 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 – because diversity is our strength!
Chef in Exmouth employer: ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services
At ESS – Compass Group UK & Ireland, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that prioritises work-life balance and employee well-being. With a supportive team culture, comprehensive benefits including free meals, gym access, and career development opportunities, our chefs at CTCRM Lympstone can thrive in a fulfilling environment while serving high-quality meals to service personnel. Join us to be part of a diverse team that values your unique contributions and empowers you to grow professionally.
Contact Details:
ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Exmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Chat with fellow chefs, join culinary groups, and connect on social media. You never know when a casual conversation might lead to your next job opportunity.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Consider doing a trial shift or a cooking demo to showcase your culinary talents. It’s a great way to impress potential employers and get a feel for the kitchen vibe.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out directly to restaurants or catering companies you admire. A friendly email or call can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities at ESS, and applying directly can give you a better chance of landing that chef role. Plus, you’ll be part of a supportive team that values your growth!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef in Exmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for cooking shine through! Share your experiences and what drives you to create delicious meals. We want to see that you're not just a chef, but someone who truly enjoys the art of cooking.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail your previous roles in the kitchen. Whether it’s menu planning or maintaining hygiene standards, we want to know how your skills align with what we’re looking for. Tailor your application to showcase your culinary journey!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of the Chef role. Be ready to discuss your experience in preparing and presenting high-quality meals, as well as how you maintain food safety and hygiene standards. This shows that you understand what’s expected and can hit the ground running.
✨Show Your Passion for Food
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for cooking shine through! Share stories about your favourite dishes to prepare or memorable experiences in the kitchen. This will help convey your passion for great food and quality service, which is essential for this role.
✨Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Since the job involves working collaboratively within a professional kitchen team, be prepared to discuss your teamwork skills. Think of examples where you’ve successfully worked with others to achieve a common goal, especially in a fast-paced environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the menu planning process or how the team maintains a positive work environment. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the workplace culture aligns with your values.
