At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in managing the kitchen and ensure high food quality standards.
- Company: Join Hastings Hotels, a family-owned luxury hotel group with a focus on quality.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, discounts, 29 days holiday plus your birthday, and career progression.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and employee wellbeing.
- Why this job: Be part of a talented team and develop your culinary skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in quality catering and NVQ level 2 in Food Preparation required.
The predicted salary is between 25290 - 30910 £ per year.
Location: Coast Road Hastings Hotels is a family owned, luxury hotel group based in Northern Ireland. We value our people. It's our people who provide the excellent experience we offer to all our guests. When we work together we can do amazing things.
We are seeking a reliable and enthusiastic person to become part of our talented Kitchen team at the exclusive Ballygally Castle. Under the leadership of our Inspiring Head Chef, Kevin Osborne, you will have the opportunity to work with our friendly team, develop your skills and enjoy the variety offered by a role in hospitality.
The successful candidate can expect to work 45 hours per week (excluding breaks), five shifts out of seven including weekends. Hours vary, but typical shift patterns include, 11am to 11pm, 2pm to 10pm. The rate of pay for this full-time position is £33,910.00 per annum. We offer a range of benefits including free staff meals, employee discounts, 29 days holiday plus your birthday and opportunities for career progression and development.
About The Role
To assist with the management of the Kitchen to ensure the Hastings standards of preparation and presentation are maintained. Helping the Head Chef manage the smooth and efficient operation of the Kitchens, ensuring the Hotel’s reputation for food quality is always maintained. Ensuring the planning, preparation, cooking and presentation of food is to the standard required by the Hotel and its guests. Contributing to the development of the hotel’s business plan, projects and initiatives in order to develop the hotel’s business and market position. Helping the Head Chef manage the culinary budget and kitchen expenditure. Ensuring Company policies relating to stock management and stock ordering are implemented and monitored, taking appropriate action to resolve problems. Ensuring the hotel complies with all matters relating to food hygiene regulations, environmental health laws and all other relevant legislation. Ensuring the Hotel’s 5* hygiene score is maintained. Ensuring the security of the kitchen and storage areas is maintained at all times. Ensuring all kitchen employees receive appropriate training, coaching and development to meet the Hastings’ standard. Ensuring Hastings’ quality standards and procedures are fully understood, implemented and regularly reviewed, and that formal and informal feedback is delivered to ensure continual improvement. Conducting team meetings on a regular basis to communicate standards required, targets and company information. Ensuring all kitchen areas, fixtures and equipment are properly maintained and presented to the Hastings’ standard. Working effectively with colleagues across departments to ensure a harmonious working environment where all employees are treated with respect and dignity. Carrying out any other duties as required.
About You
We would love you to have similar previous experience gained within a quality catering establishment.
Required Criteria
- Good communication skills
- A clean and tidy appearance
- Must have excellent attention to detail
- Right to Work in the United Kingdom
- Must have previous experience at a similar level gained within a high quality catering operation
- Must have NVQ level 2 or the equivalent in Food Preparation and Cooking and hold a recognised current Food Hygiene Certificate
Desired Criteria
- Educated to GCSE Standard or the equivalent including English and Maths
- Basic Food Hygiene certificate
- Experience as an Executive Sous Chef
Closing Date: Monday 21st September, 2026
Contract Type: fulltime
Salary: £33,910.00 Yearly
Sous Chef employer: Hastings Hotels, Northern Ireland
Hastings Hotels is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture where respect and dignity are paramount. Located in the picturesque Ballygally Castle, employees benefit from a supportive environment that fosters growth through training and development opportunities, ensuring that every team member can excel in their role. With a commitment to quality and guest satisfaction, working here means being part of a dedicated team that values excellence and collaboration.
Contact Details:
Hastings Hotels, Northern Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef
✨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 Hastings Hotels, Northern Ireland. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hastings Hotels, Northern Ireland
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hastings Hotels, Northern Ireland 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 Sous Chef
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 Hastings Hotels, Northern Ireland 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 Hastings Hotels, Northern Ireland
✨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!
