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- Tasks: Lead the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence and motivate the team during busy periods.
- Company: Join Hickory's Smokehouse, crowned 'Best Pub Employer' for 2025, known for its Southern style BBQ.
- Benefits: Earn up to £36,000 per year, enjoy free meals, discounts, and paid days off for special occasions.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team with real progression opportunities and a supportive work-life balance culture.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required, just a passion for BBQ and teamwork!
- Other info: Experience working in bespoke kitchens with authentic smokers and opportunities for road trips and wellness support.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Start an exciting new chapter in your hospitality career at Hickory's Smokehouse. We are thrilled to have been recently crowned the 'Best Pub Employer' for 2025 at The Publican Awards! Join us as a Junior Sous Chef and we can offer you a generous package of up to £36,000 per year including Tip Jar!
We are looking for a Junior Sous Chef to join our passionate brigade of BBQ enthusiasts. You will be responsible for the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence, motivate the team through those busy periods, and work towards becoming a Head Chef yourself. You will be working with and leading the team to deliver authentic fresh food and the very best food that our Smokehouse can offer.
As the fastest growing Southern style Smokehouse group in the UK with an award-winning Hickory's Training Academy, we can offer you real progression opportunities as we expand. We have a company culture that really cares and embraces work-life balance.
Thank You's & Benefits:
- A generous Junior Sous Chef package of up to £36,000 per year including Tip Jar!
- The chance to work in one of our £250k bespoke built kitchens, with authentic smokers imported from the 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.
- 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).
- Road trips to the Southern States, Europe & UK and stacks of enrichment opportunities.
- Wellbeing support & 24-hour access to our wellness programme, plus a Wellbeing Champion in each restaurant to support you.
- Our pledge to a work-life balance - monitoring & managing through our Red Zone.
- 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.
If all of that sounds amazing to you and you want to come and be a Hickory's Smokehouse Junior Sous Chef, then click 'apply' now!
Junior Sous Chef employer: Hickorys Smokehouse
Contact Detail:
Hickorys Smokehouse Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Sous Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Hickory's Smokehouse and their unique BBQ style. Understanding their menu and cooking techniques will help you stand out during interviews, showing your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Hickory's to gain insights into the company culture and expectations. This can provide you with valuable information that you can use to tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership skills and how you've motivated teams in previous roles. As a Junior Sous Chef, demonstrating your ability to lead during busy periods will be crucial.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for food and hospitality through social media or a personal blog. Sharing your culinary creations or experiences can make you more memorable to the hiring team at Hickory's.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Sous Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities of a Junior Sous Chef at Hickory's Smokehouse. Highlight your relevant experience in kitchen management and team motivation.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your culinary skills, experience in BBQ or similar cuisines, and any leadership roles you've held. Make sure to include specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to work under pressure.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cooking and hospitality. Mention why you want to join Hickory's Smokehouse specifically and how you align with their values and culture.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in a kitchen environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hickorys Smokehouse
✨Show Your Passion for BBQ
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for BBQ and the culinary arts during the interview. Share any personal experiences or favourite dishes that highlight your love for this style of cooking, as it aligns perfectly with Hickory's Smokehouse's ethos.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Junior Sous Chef, you'll be expected to motivate the team in the Head Chef's absence. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or handled busy kitchen environments in the past to showcase your leadership potential.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Menu
Before the interview, take some time to research Hickory's menu and understand their offerings. Being knowledgeable about their dishes will not only impress the interviewers but also show your commitment to the role and the company.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the training opportunities at Hickory's Training Academy or the company culture. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the position and your desire for growth within the company.
