At a Glance
- Tasks: Create stunning desserts and pastries while supporting kitchen prep with fresh, local ingredients.
- Company: Join Knepp Wilding Kitchen, a pioneering rewilding estate focused on sustainable British produce.
- Benefits: Enjoy a good work-life balance, 50% off meals, and development opportunities in a Michelin-listed kitchen.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team crafting exceptional dishes in a vibrant, nature-led environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Pastry Chef or similar role, with a keen eye for detail and teamwork skills.
- Other info: Work in a supportive team with summer and Christmas parties, plus coffee and tea on tap.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Hours: 45 hours per week over five days
We’re looking for a skilled and detail-focused Pastry / Prep Chef to join Knepp Wilding Kitchen on a permanent basis. This role supports both pastry production and general kitchen preparation, working with outstanding produce from our rewilding estate, on-site butchery and three-acre market garden. It’s an ideal position for a chef who enjoys precision, organisation and working with exceptional, ingredient-led food.
About Knepp: Knepp is a 3,500-acre rewilding estate near Horsham, pioneering nature-led land management. Our kitchen celebrates award-winning beef, venison and pork, alongside seasonal vegetables grown in our three-acre on-site market garden. We are an ingredient-led, Michelin-listed, high-paced restaurant, focused on the very best sustainable British produce.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare and produce desserts, pastries and baked goods to a consistently high standard
- Support dessert service and daily pastry prep
- Assist with general kitchen prep, including vegetables, sauces and garnishes
- Work closely with the senior kitchen team on menu development
- Maintain excellent organisation and mise en place
- Assist with stock control, ordering and waste reduction
- Support events and larger services when required
- Maintain a clean, safe kitchen and uphold 5-star EHO standards
Requirements:
- Previous experience as a Pastry Chef, Prep Chef or Chef de Partie
- Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to prep
- Confident working independently and as part of a team
- Passionate about produce, seasonality and quality
- Positive attitude and clear communication skills
- Must hold a full UK driving licence and be able to travel to the site independently
Good work-life balance with largely daytime hours. Development opportunities within a respected, ingredient-led kitchen. Summer and Christmas parties. Coffee & tea on tap. 50% off in the restaurant, 20% off in the shop. Supportive and welcoming management team.
To apply: Please send a copy of your CV and a short covering letter to alex@knepp.co.uk, explaining how your experience, qualities and values align with the job description and person specification. Knepp is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity in our team as much as we do in our landscape. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles at Knepp.
Pastry/Prep Chef in Horsham employer: Knepp Castle Estate, Knepp Farms LLP
Contact Detail:
Knepp Castle Estate, Knepp Farms LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pastry/Prep Chef in Horsham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the kitchen vibe! If you can, visit Knepp Wilding Kitchen before applying. Chat with the team, soak up the atmosphere, and show your passion for their ingredient-led approach. It’ll give you a leg up when you apply!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in person! If you get the chance, ask if you can do a trial shift or a demo of your pastry skills. This is a great way to demonstrate your attention to detail and methodical approach, which are key for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with other chefs and industry folks on social media or at local events. You never know who might have insider info about job openings or can put in a good word for you at Knepp.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t just send your CV; make it personal! When you apply through our website, tailor your covering letter to highlight how your experience aligns with Knepp’s values. Show them you’re not just another chef, but the perfect fit for their team!
We think you need these skills to ace Pastry/Prep Chef in Horsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Personalised Cover Letter: When you’re writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor it specifically to the Pastry/Prep Chef role at Knepp. Highlight your passion for ingredient-led cooking and how your experience aligns with their focus on quality and sustainability.
Show Off Your Skills: In your CV, don’t just list your previous jobs. Instead, showcase your skills in pastry production and kitchen prep. Use specific examples that demonstrate your attention to detail and methodical approach, as these are key for this role.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. Knepp values a positive attitude and clear communication, so don’t be afraid to express your enthusiasm for working with exceptional produce and being part of a supportive team.
Apply Through Our Website: While you can send your application via email, we encourage you to check out our website for any additional information or updates about the role. It’s a great way to get a feel for our culture and what we’re all about!
How to prepare for a job interview at Knepp Castle Estate, Knepp Farms LLP
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the types of produce and ingredients that Knepp Wilding Kitchen uses. Being able to discuss your passion for seasonal and sustainable ingredients will show that you align with their values.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare a few examples of your previous pastry work to discuss during the interview. Bring photos or even a small sample if possible! This will demonstrate your attention to detail and your ability to produce high-quality desserts.
✨Be Organised
Highlight your organisational skills and how you maintain mise en place in your previous roles. Share specific strategies you use to keep your workspace tidy and efficient, as this is crucial in a high-paced kitchen environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice clear and positive communication. Be ready to discuss how you work within a team and how you handle feedback. Good communication is key in a kitchen, especially when collaborating on menu development.