At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to prepare and cook delicious food while keeping the kitchen running smoothly.
- Company: J D Wetherspoon is a UK Top Employer known for its award-winning training programme.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free meals, discounts, and opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Perfect for those seeking flexible hours and a fun, inclusive work environment.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Great for students looking for part-time work with potential for growth.
Job Ref
645550
Job Title
Kitchen staff
Pub
The Pennsylvanian, Rickmansworth
Salary
ÂŁ12.41
Closing Date
01-02-2026
Vacancy Description
We’re looking for fun, enthusiastic, passionate people to join our hard-working teams. No experience is needed, just a good attitude, a willingness to learn and a calm head under pressure. As a UK Top Employer with an award-winning training programme, we know that we can teach you the skills you’ll need to succeed.
Whether you’re looking for a long-term career or just some extra shifts, if you’re reliable, friendly and love working as part of a team – this role could be perfect for you.
What’s in it for you?
- competitive rate of pay
- a free meal and a drink, when working
- 20% discount on all food, drinks and hotel accommodation (for you and up to three guests), when not working
- ÂŁ1 extra per hour, for hours worked during midnight-5.59am
- bonus scheme – earn up to 19% of your pay
- availability of guaranteed-hours contracts and variable-hours contracts
- paid holiday
- free shares (after a qualifying period)
- loyalty reward scheme
The role
At a glance, your role is to work as part of a team to prepare and cook food and to help to keep the kitchen running smoothly, all while maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety and customer service.
Our pubs open early and close late, so we offer great flexibility with shift patterns, including mornings, evenings, weekends and late finishes.
Duties Include
- preparing, cooking and presenting food to the correct spec
- operating kitchen work stations, including grills, fryers, microwaves and more
- working as a team to keep to time and quality targets
- following food hygiene and allergen, as well as health and safety, standards
- cleaning as you go, including full kitchen clean-downs
- rotating stock and storing food safely
- completing required induction, role‑specific and ongoing refresher training and contributing to continuous improvement
Progression and development
Most Wetherspoon team leaders and managers started in the kitchen or behind the bar.
If you’re looking to progress, we can support your development with:
- structured on‑time training
- apprenticeships and management academies
- cross‑training into other areas (bar, floor, hotel)
- opportunities to move into team‑leader, kitchen‑shift‑leader and/or pub‑manager roles
Wetherspoon promotes an inclusive working environment where everyone is welcome. When you’re at work, we want you to feel comfortable being yourself. Whatever your background, preferences or beliefs, we’ll ensure that you have the skills and knowledge you need for a great career with us.
Under‑18s may attract a lower rate of pay, always in line with, but usually above, national guidelines.
If a high number of applications is received, this vacancy may close early.
Read more about our kitchen associate role.
Hours Per Week
8
Monday Hours
Flexible
Tuesday Hours
Flexible
Wednesday Hours
Flexible
Thursday Hours
Flexible
Friday Hours
Flexible
Saturday Hours
Flexible
Sunday Hours
Flexible
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Kitchen staff employer: J D Wetherspoon
Contact Detail:
J D Wetherspoon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen staff
✨Tip Number 1
Show your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to speak with someone from the team, whether it's during a casual chat or an interview, let your passion for working in a kitchen shine through. A positive attitude can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the menu and the types of food served at J D Wetherspoon. This will not only help you understand the role better but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the position when discussing it with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your teamwork skills. Since the role involves working closely with others, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with a team, even if it's from school projects or volunteer work.
✨Tip Number 4
Ask questions during your interactions with the team. Inquire about the training programmes and opportunities for progression within the company. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are interested in building a career with them.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen staff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Enthusiasm: In your application, express your enthusiasm for the role. Mention why you are excited about working in a kitchen environment and how you enjoy being part of a team.
Highlight Transferable Skills: Even if you lack direct kitchen experience, highlight any relevant skills such as teamwork, communication, or time management. These qualities are essential in a fast-paced kitchen setting.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the kitchen staff role. Emphasise any previous roles that required similar skills, even if they were in different industries. Keep it concise and focused.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your personality and eagerness to learn. Mention your willingness to undergo training and how you can contribute to maintaining high standards in the kitchen.
How to prepare for a job interview at J D Wetherspoon
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
J D Wetherspoon is looking for fun and passionate individuals. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role and the hospitality industry during the interview. A positive attitude can go a long way!
✨Highlight Your Team Spirit
Since the role involves working as part of a team, be prepared to discuss your experiences in teamwork. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles or activities.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
The company values a good attitude and a willingness to learn over experience. Be ready to talk about how you adapt to new situations and your eagerness to develop new skills in the kitchen.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions related to food hygiene, safety standards, and kitchen operations. Familiarise yourself with basic kitchen practices and be ready to discuss how you would handle various scenarios in a busy kitchen environment.