At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious dishes for students and staff while supporting the Head Chef.
- Company: Join Gonville & Caius College, a prestigious part of the University of Cambridge.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, healthcare plan, and 33 days of annual leave.
- Other info: Work in a beautiful environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant community and showcase your culinary creativity every day.
- Qualifications: Passion for cooking and a commitment to high standards in food preparation.
The predicted salary is between 35413 - 35413 £ per year.
Gonville & Caius College is looking for a passionate Chef de Partie to support us in our delivery of dining vision at the College. Responsible to the Head Chef, the post holder will produce food for all College outlets, for students, staff and Fellows, including Master's Lodge, special internal functions and conference delegates. The role will support the Head Chef and Shift leaders in all aspects of food preparation to the highest possible standards.
You will take pride in customer satisfaction and seek to be creative in your work on a daily basis. This is a full-time role, 40 hours per week, working 5 days out of 7, fixed two-weekly rota including evenings with every other weekend off. The ability and willingness to adopt a flexible approach to working hours is expected, and you may be required to work additional hours from time to time in order to fulfil the requirements of the role and the needs of the College.
This role is expected to start in January 2027. This is a full-time, permanent role. The hours of work are 40 hours per week with an annual salary of £35,413.
Benefits include:
- Generous pension scheme; 14.5% employer contributions and 3x death in service benefit
- Healthcare cash-plan
- 33 days of annual leave (including public holidays) (prorated for part time)
- Parking (subject to availability/eligibility)
- College gym
- Free on-site lunch provided
- The opportunity to work in a beautiful environment
The closing date for applications is 12 noon GMT on Monday 30 November 2026. You are encouraged to make an early application as the vacancy may close early if sufficient applications are received. For your application to be considered it MUST be complete and include an up-to-date CV. The College has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
About Us: Gonville & Caius – we're usually known simply as ‘Keys' – is a constituent college of the University of Cambridge and home to nearly 1,000 undergraduates, postgraduates and academics, many known as Fellows. Teaching and research across the full spectrum of subjects are central to the College's mission, supported by 200 operational staff. From domestic cleaning and professional catering, plumbing and electrical jobs to student administrative support, finance roles and library services, staff are the daily heartbeat of the College. There are many varied and wonderful roles to become part of the community.
Chef de Partie employer: Gonville Caius College
Gonville & Caius College offers a unique opportunity to work in a prestigious educational environment in the heart of Cambridge. As a Relief Porter, you will be part of a supportive team that values flexibility and inclusivity, with competitive pay rates and benefits such as uniform provision and meal allowances. The College fosters a culture of growth and development, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in a vibrant academic community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef de Partie
✨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 Gonville Caius College. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Gonville Caius College
Don't be shy about reaching out to Gonville Caius College 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 de Partie
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 Gonville Caius College 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 Gonville Caius College
✨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!
