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 top UK 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 who love teamwork and want to learn in a fun, inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available, including evenings and weekends, with potential for guaranteed hours.
Overview
The Wheatsheaf, Stoke-on-Trent is hiring Kitchen staff. Salary: £12.41. Closing Date: 18-03-2026.
Role
Work as part of a team to prepare and cook food, help keep the kitchen running smoothly, and maintain high standards of cleanliness, safety and customer service. Flexible shift patterns include mornings, evenings, weekends and late finishes.
Responsibilities
- Preparing, cooking and presenting food to the correct specification
- Operating kitchen work stations, including grills, fryers, microwaves and more
- Working as a team to meet time and quality targets
- Following food hygiene, allergen, health and safety standards
- Cleaning as you go and performing 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. With progression support including:
- Structured on-the-job 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
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
- £1 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
Hours
Hours per week: 20. Monday to Sunday: Flexible (varied shifts).
EEO information and equal opportunities: Wetherspoon promotes an inclusive working environment where everyone is welcome. We ensure you have the skills and knowledge for a great career with us regardless of background, preferences or beliefs.
Notes
If a high number of applications is received, this vacancy may close early. Under-18s may attract a lower rate of pay, in line with national guidelines.
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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 meet the team or during any informal chats, let your passion for food and teamwork shine through. A positive attitude can make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Wetherspoon's values and culture. Understanding their commitment to inclusivity and teamwork will help you align your responses and show that you're a great fit for their environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility with shifts. Since the role involves various hours, demonstrating your willingness to work mornings, evenings, and weekends can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Ask insightful questions during your interactions. Inquire about training opportunities or career progression within the kitchen. This shows your eagerness to learn and grow within the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen staff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand what J D Wetherspoon is looking for in a Kitchen staff member. Highlight the key skills and attributes they value, such as enthusiasm, teamwork, and a willingness to learn.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the qualities mentioned in the job description. Even if you don't have direct experience, emphasise any relevant skills or experiences that demonstrate your ability to work in a fast-paced environment and your commitment to high standards.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your personality and enthusiasm for the role. Mention why you want to work at J D Wetherspoon specifically and how you align with their values of teamwork and customer service.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread all your documents. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your contact information is correct. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at J D Wetherspoon
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Since J D Wetherspoon is looking for fun and passionate people, make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role. Share why you want to work in a kitchen environment and how you enjoy being part of a team.
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
Even if you don't have prior experience, emphasise your eagerness to learn new skills. Mention any relevant experiences where you've quickly picked up new tasks or adapted to new environments.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
As the role involves working closely with others, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated in a team setting. This could be from previous jobs, school projects, or even group activities.
✨Prepare for Common Questions
Anticipate questions related to food hygiene, safety standards, and how you handle pressure. Familiarise yourself with basic kitchen practices, as this will show that you're serious about the role and ready to contribute.