Chef

Stafford Full-Time No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join us as a Chef and master authentic BBQ cooking in a vibrant kitchen.
  • Company: Hickory's Smokehouse, crowned 'Best Pub Employer' for 2025, values its team and work-life balance.
  • Benefits: Earn up to £15.66 per hour, including tips, with perks like free meals and discounts.
  • Why this job: Enjoy real progression opportunities and a supportive culture while cooking delicious BBQ.
  • Qualifications: Passion for cooking and a desire to learn the art of BBQ are essential.
  • Other info: Experience exciting team events and well-being support while making a difference in the community.

Overview

Start an exciting new chapter in your hospitality career at Hickory\’s Smokehouse. We are thrilled to have been crowned the ‘Best Pub Employer’ for 2025 at The Publican Awards! Join us as a Chef and we can offer you a generous package of up to £15.66 per hour including Tip Jar. Real Chefs Wanted. To Cook Real Food…. Sounds like a basic request – it’s a key ingredient for our chefs. Learn the art of authentic BBQ cooking and become a master of the flames as we take your career to a whole new level.

Our kitchens are busy places, hubs of excellence for BBQin, grillin’ & smokin’ and training grounds for our talented team. We can offer you real progression opportunities and a company culture that really cares and embraces work life balance. You work hard for us, and we will invest in you. Big time.

So, if you are a passionate chef who would love to master the art of authentic BBQ cooking, apply now and join the gang.

Benefits

  • A package of up to £15.66 per hour including Tip Jar – that’s up to £3.00 per hour in tips!
  • The chance to work in one of our £250k bespoke built kitchens, with authentic smokers imported all the way from USA
  • Excellent training & progression opportunities through our award-winning Hickory’s Training Academy
  • Birthday reward meal on us for you & your friends – every year
  • Free smokin’ BBQ on shift – team food & drinks menu
  • Christmas Day off work – every year
  • Moments that matter – paid occasion days off (Wedding day, kid’s first day at school, moving into first home & more)
  • Team Player card – 25% discount for you & 5 friends in all Hickory’s (rising to 50% for loyal service)
  • Wellbeing support & 24-hour access to our wellness programme, plus a Wellbeing Champion in each restaurant to support you
  • A packed team social & engagement calendar & annual team party
  • A chance to ‘give a bit back’ with fundraising activities for Cash For Kids
  • Up to £500 for you through the refer a friend scheme

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Chef employer: Hickory's Smokehouse

At Hickory's Smokehouse, we pride ourselves on being named the 'Best Pub Employer' for 2025, offering a vibrant work culture that values your passion for authentic BBQ cooking. With competitive pay, excellent training through our award-winning Hickory's Training Academy, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, we ensure that our chefs not only thrive in their roles but also enjoy a balanced work-life experience. Join us in our state-of-the-art kitchens and take advantage of unique benefits like paid occasion days off and team discounts, making your culinary journey both rewarding and enjoyable.
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Contact Detail:

Hickory's Smokehouse Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Chef

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Hickory's Smokehouse and their BBQ style. Understanding their menu and cooking techniques will help you stand out during the interview, showing your genuine interest in their culinary approach.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of Hickory's. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and what they look for in a chef, which can give you an edge in your application process.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your passion for BBQ cooking and any relevant experience you have. Be ready to share specific examples of dishes you've created or techniques you've mastered that align with their focus on authentic BBQ.

✨Tip Number 4

Show enthusiasm for the training and progression opportunities they offer. Expressing your eagerness to learn and grow within the company can demonstrate your commitment and make you a more attractive candidate.

We think you need these skills to ace Chef

Culinary Skills
BBQ Cooking Techniques
Grilling and Smoking Expertise
Food Safety and Hygiene Knowledge
Creativity in Menu Development
Time Management
Teamwork and Collaboration
Attention to Detail
Adaptability in a Fast-Paced Environment
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Passion for Food and Hospitality
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Customer Service Orientation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in the kitchen, especially any BBQ or grill cooking skills. Use specific examples of your culinary achievements to stand out.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for cooking and your desire to work at Hickory's Smokehouse. Mention why you admire their commitment to authentic BBQ and how you can contribute to their team.

Showcase Your Skills: If possible, include a portfolio of your culinary creations or any relevant certifications. This could be a great way to demonstrate your skills and passion for cooking.

Follow Up: After submitting your application, consider sending a polite follow-up email to express your continued interest in the position. This shows enthusiasm and can help keep your application top of mind.

How to prepare for a job interview at Hickory's Smokehouse

✨Show Your Passion for BBQ

Make sure to express your enthusiasm for authentic BBQ cooking during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or techniques you've mastered, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the craft and align with the company's focus on real food.

✨Highlight Teamwork Skills

Since Hickory's Smokehouse values a strong team culture, be prepared to discuss your experiences working in a team environment. Provide examples of how you've collaborated with others in a kitchen setting to create a positive and efficient work atmosphere.

✨Discuss Progression Goals

Take the opportunity to talk about your career aspirations and how you see yourself growing within the company. Mentioning your interest in the training opportunities offered by Hickory's Training Academy can show that you're eager to develop your skills further.

✨Prepare Questions About Company Culture

Demonstrate your interest in the company by preparing thoughtful questions about their culture and values. Inquire about how they support work-life balance and employee wellbeing, as this shows you are looking for a workplace that aligns with your personal values.

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