At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and present delicious food in a fast-paced airport kitchen.
- Company: Join a supportive team at Exeter Airport's catering operation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 23 days leave, gym memberships, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team delivering quality food to travellers.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in Cookery and experience in a busy kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 21150 - 25850 £ per year.
Chef – Exeter Airport
Love working in a busy kitchen where no two days are the same?
Join our fast‑paced Food & Beverage team at Exeter Airport, where you’ll help deliver great food to thousands of travellers every week.
LED Community Leisure manages the airport catering operation and is known for quality food, friendly service, and a supportive team culture.
We’re looking for an experienced Chef who takes pride in high standards, enjoys working at pace, and wants to be part of a positive, professional kitchen team.
Please note: shifts may start as early as 2:30am, so reliable transport is essential.
The Role
As a Chef at Exeter Airport, you’ll play a key part in delivering consistently high‑quality food across our outlets.
You’ll work closely with the wider kitchen team to ensure service runs smoothly, standards are met, and customers receive great food every time.
- What You’ll Do
- Prepare, cook and present food to brand and quality standards
- Support daily food production across airport outlets
- Maintain excellent food safety, hygiene and cleanliness standards
- Manage stock rotation, storage and waste reduction
- Work collaboratively within a busy kitchen environment
- Act as a positive role model, supporting a professional and motivated team
- What We’re Looking For
- NVQ Level 2 / BTEC in Professional Cookery (or equivalent)
- At least 1 year’s experience in a fast‑paced kitchen
- Strong knowledge of food hygiene and kitchen organisation
- Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings and weekends
- Level 2 Food Safety (essential)
- First Aid at Work (desirable or willingness to train)
- An interest in developing your skills and progressing your career
What We Offer
- From 23 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays
- Enhanced sickness pay after probation
- Free gym, swim and fitness memberships
- Staff discounts, My Staff Shop access and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Ongoing training, development and progression opportunities
- Pension scheme, health cash plan and recognition awards
- Diversity & Inclusion
We’re proud to be an inclusive employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds and abilities.
What matters most is your passion for food, teamwork and delivering great service.
Chef - Airport in Exeter employer: LED Community Leisure
Joining the Tor Bar team at Exeter Airport means becoming part of a dynamic and inclusive hospitality environment where exceptional customer service is at the heart of what we do. With benefits like enhanced pay for early shifts, free on-site parking, and opportunities for personal development, we prioritise employee well-being and growth. Our vibrant work culture encourages collaboration and recognition, making it an excellent place for those looking to thrive in the hospitality industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef - Airport in Exeter
✨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 LED Community Leisure. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to LED Community Leisure
Don't be shy about reaching out to LED Community Leisure 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 - Airport in Exeter
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 LED Community Leisure 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 LED Community Leisure
✨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!
