At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the kitchen team by keeping everything clean and organised while learning new skills.
- Company: The Old Cock Inn, a charming pub with a relaxed atmosphere in Harpenden.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, 28 days holiday, discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture with training and a chance to grow your career.
- Why this job: Join a fun team and gain valuable experience in a vibrant kitchen environment.
- Qualifications: Minimum 6 months chef experience and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 10.85 - 12.71 £ per hour.
The Old Cock Inn is a delightful pub & restaurant in the heart of Harpenden, offering guests the added benefit of six boutique bedrooms. We have a stylish and cosy restaurant, a relaxed and informal bar area with a roaring log fire for the colder months, and our lovely terrace garden at the back. We're what you might call a 'proper pub' serving a selection of real ales and craft beers, alongside an extensive wine, gin and spirit list.
This is an entry level position in the kitchen. We recognise and celebrate the importance of a good kitchen porter for helping the kitchen run smoothly. No matter how good the chefs might be, if there are no clean pans nothing is going to get cooked!
Your main duties will involve:
- Ensuring basic cleaning jobs are carried out as quickly as possible
- Collecting and washing up pots and pans
- Cleaning food preparation areas and equipment, in addition to crockery and cutlery
- Unloading food and equipment deliveries
- Keeping store room organised
- Keeping work surfaces, walls and floors clean and sanitised
- Food preparation including preparing some salads or desserts
- Performing other duties as required including deep cleans and laundry of kitchen towels and aprons
What we are looking for:
- Minimum 6 months chef experience
- Ability to work on your own initiative
- Desire to learn, improve and train from those around you
- A proud individual that always strives to deliver their best
Hourly rate £10.85 - £12.71 p/h
28 days holiday
Retail and Beer discounts
50% off food on shift
Refer a friend Bonus
Employee assistance programme
Benefits portal
Career development programme
Fun culture surrounded by a supportive team
Training and development, compliance training, dedicated e-learning courses
Uniform
Kitchen Assistant - The Old Cock Inn - Harpenden, Hertfordshire employer: leisurejobs
The Old Cock Inn is an exceptional employer that fosters a fun and supportive work culture, making it an ideal place for aspiring kitchen professionals. Located in the charming town of Harpenden, employees benefit from competitive pay, generous discounts, and a commitment to career development through training and e-learning opportunities. Join our dedicated team and enjoy a rewarding experience in a vibrant pub environment where your contributions are valued and recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant - The Old Cock Inn - Harpenden, Hertfordshire
✨Explore Local Hotspots
For entry-level roles in the hospitality food service industry, getting a foot in the door can often mean walking into local cafés, restaurants, or hotels with your CV in hand. Introduce yourself, ask about openings, and show your enthusiasm. This face-to-face approach can really set you apart from other candidates who just apply online!
✨Utilise Seasonal Hiring Trends
Keep an eye on the busy seasons, like summer or winter holidays, when restaurants and venues are ramping up for new staff. Many establishments look for extra hands during these peak times, so target your applications around these windows. Engage with local event calendars to find places that might be preparing for busy periods.
✨Join Hospitality Communities
Connect with local hospitality groups on social media or platforms like Meetup; they're a great way to learn about unadvertised opportunities and network with industry folks. Plus, you’ll get insider tips on where the best spots to apply are, and maybe even find a mentor to guide you through your first steps in the industry.
✨Polish those Soft Skills
In food service, your ability to communicate well and remain calm under pressure is crucial. Consider volunteering at local events or gatherings where you can showcase these skills. It not only adds experience to your CV but also demonstrates your willingness to learn and adapt, which is super enticing to potential employers like leisurejobs.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Assistant - The Old Cock Inn - Harpenden, Hertfordshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service world, mentioning your customer service experience is key. Even if it’s just a part-time gig or a volunteer role, highlight how you made customers happy or handled tricky situations. We love seeing those people-focused skills in your application!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any relevant certifications, like a food hygiene certificate or bartending course, make sure they shine in your CV. Certifications show you're serious about your craft, and we appreciate candidates who come prepared with the right knowledge and skills for the job.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:For an entry-level position like this, your cover letter should reflect your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Talk about why you’re excited about the role at leisurejobs and what you hope to gain from working in hospitality. Let your personality come through!
Keep Your CV Clear and Concise:In hospitality, hiring managers might be sifting through loads of applications. Keep your CV neat and ensure it highlights your relevant experience and skills without fluff. Stick to one page if you can, making it easy for us to see why you'd be a great fit at leisurejobs!
How to prepare for a job interview at leisurejobs
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
You'd be surprised at how many candidates stumble on questions about the menu! Make sure you familiarise yourself with the food and drink offerings at leisurejobs. Knowing the ingredients, cooking methods, and even the specials can really impress your interviewer and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service world, customer service is king. Prepare some examples of how you've handled customer interactions in the past, whether in a part-time job or even during group projects. Practising these scenarios can set you apart and highlight your problem-solving abilities.
✨Be Ready for Practical Assessments
Since you're going for an entry-level role, don't be surprised if they ask you to demonstrate your skills in a practical way. Whether that's making a drink or setting a table, brush up on basic hospitality tasks. It shows that you're not just talk, but you can walk the walk too!
✨Display Your Willingness to Learn
As an entry-level candidate, your enthusiasm and willingness to grow can go a long way. Be prepared to discuss what you hope to learn and how you can contribute to the team at leisurejobs. Your motivation can often outweigh experience, so let that passion shine through!
