At a Glance
- Tasks: Cook fresh, authentic BBQ food and develop your chef skills in a high-energy kitchen.
- Company: Join Hickory's Smokehouse, one of the UK's fastest-growing BBQ brands.
- Benefits: Earn up to £16.11 per hour plus tips, with free team meals and discounts.
- Other info: Enjoy a great work-life balance and unique enrichment opportunities like road trips.
- Why this job: Experience award-winning training and clear progression opportunities in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Previous experience as a Grill Chef or Line Chef in a busy kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 16.11 - 16.11 £ per hour.
Start an exciting new chapter in your hospitality career with Hickory's Smokehouse – join our award-winning team and discover what makes us different. Hickory’s Smokehouse is one of the fastest-growing restaurant and BBQ brands in the UK, specialising in authentic American-style BBQ. We’re looking for an experienced Chef to join our busy, high-energy kitchen team. This is a hands-on kitchen role where you’ll cook fresh food from scratch, work with authentic BBQ smokers and develop real chef skills — with clear progression and industry-leading training.
What you’ll be doing:
- Cooking fresh, authentic BBQ food to brand standards
- Working across grill, smoke and prep sections
- Maintaining high food quality, hygiene and safety standards
- Thriving in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment
- Working as part of a supportive, passionate kitchen team
- Developing your skills with training and progression opportunities
Why Hickory’s?
- Up to £16.11 per hour, including Tip Jar (up to £3.00 per hour in tips)
- £250k bespoke-built kitchen with USA-imported smokers
- Award-winning training & clear progression opportunities
- Free team food on shift & a birthday meal on us – huge BBQ menu with endless possibilities
- Christmas Day off
- Paid time off for life’s big moments (weddings, first day at school, moving into your first home & more)
- 25% team discount across Hickory’s (rising to 50% with loyal service)
- 24/7 wellbeing support & a culture that truly values work–life balance
- Road trips to the Southern States, Europe & UK and stacks of enrichment opportunities
- A chance to ‘give a bit back’ with fundraising activities for Cash For Kids
About You:
- Experience as a Grill Chef, Line Chef or Chef de Partie in a high-volume kitchen
- Passion for food and pride in what you cook
- Positive attitude and strong team ethic
- Looking for stability, progression and a great work–life balance
Chef in Wigan employer: Hickory's Smokehouse
At Hickory's Smokehouse, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions creativity and teamwork. As a Junior Sous Chef, you'll benefit from our award-winning training academy, generous salary package, and a strong focus on work-life balance, all while working in a state-of-the-art kitchen with passionate BBQ enthusiasts. Join us to not only advance your culinary career but also to be part of a community that values your growth and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Wigan
✨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 Hickory's Smokehouse. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hickory's Smokehouse
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hickory's Smokehouse 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 in Wigan
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 Hickory's Smokehouse 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 Hickory's Smokehouse
✨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!
