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.
- Other info: Work in a supportive team with summer and Christmas parties, plus coffee and tea on tap.
- 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.
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
Knepp Wilding Kitchen offers an exceptional work environment for a Pastry/Prep Chef, where you can thrive in a supportive and welcoming atmosphere while working with the finest sustainable British produce. With a focus on employee growth, you will have opportunities to develop your culinary skills in a Michelin-listed kitchen, all while enjoying a good work-life balance and unique benefits such as 50% off in the restaurant and engaging team events. Join us at our stunning rewilding estate near Horsham, where your passion for quality ingredients and creativity can flourish.
Contact Details:
Knepp Castle Estate, Knepp Farms LLP Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pastry/Prep Chef in Horsham
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We think you need these skills to ace Pastry/Prep Chef in Horsham
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 Knepp Castle Estate, Knepp Farms LLP 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 Knepp Castle Estate, Knepp Farms LLP
✨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!
