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- Tasks: Join our kitchen team as a Second Chef, preparing delicious meals and supporting the Head Chef.
- Company: Be part of a friendly organisation dedicated to high-quality hospitality in Southend-on-Sea.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 28 days holiday, on-site parking, and 40% off staff food.
- Why this job: This role offers a chance to grow your culinary skills in a vibrant team environment.
- Qualifications: You need an NVQ in professional cookery and experience in a similar role.
- Other info: Flexible hours with occasional evening shifts; perfect for those who love cooking and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 28000 £ per year.
Job Description
Second Chef
Southend-on-Sea | up to £28,000 | 37.5 Hours per week
The Company
If you’re passionate about food, enjoy working in a team, and are looking to join a welcoming and established organisation, we’d love to hear from you!
Our client dedicated to investing in recreational facilities in Southend-on-Sea. Their busy, friendly team at the complex operates 7 days a week, 364 days a year, delivering high-quality hospitality and food service for a diverse range of customers.
The Role:
Our client is currently seeking an experienced Second Chef to join their dynamic kitchen team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated and experienced chef to support the Head Chef and take responsibility in their absence. You’ll play a key role in preparing and delivering a wide range of meals for daily service and events.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist the Head Chef and work independently to prepare and cook high-volume meals
- Oversee kitchen operations and staff when the Head Chef is absent
- Maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety
- Contribute to a positive team environment and support kitchen efficiency
Requirements:
- NVQ or equivalent in professional cookery
- Food Hygiene Level 2 or 3 (can renew certification if needed)
- Proven experience in a similar cooking and leadership role
- Ability to work flexibly including occasional evening shifts (until 9:30pm as needed)
Hours & Schedule:
- Average 37.5 hours/week across 5 days
- Shift lengths vary between 7-9 hours
- General hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm, with some evening shifts for functions
What’s in it for you?
- £26,000 to £28,000 per annum (based on experience)
- Holiday entitlement 28 days including bank holidays
- Overtime paid for additional shifts
- On-site parking
- Pension scheme
- Use of facilities
- 40% off staff food when on shift
Second Chef employer: OnetoOne Personnel
Contact Detail:
OnetoOne Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Second Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your experience in high-volume meal preparation during any conversations or interviews. This role requires you to handle busy service periods, so showcasing your ability to thrive in a fast-paced kitchen will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific cuisine and menu style of the establishment. Understanding their offerings and being able to discuss how you can contribute to their culinary vision will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees if possible. They can provide insights into the kitchen culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your fit for the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership skills, especially how you've managed kitchen staff or operations in the absence of a head chef. This role involves overseeing others, so demonstrating your capability in this area will be crucial.
We think you need these skills to ace Second Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in the kitchen, particularly any leadership roles or high-volume cooking. Mention specific skills that align with the job description, such as food hygiene certifications and your ability to work under pressure.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and teamwork. Explain why you want to work for this particular company and how your experience makes you a great fit for the Second Chef role.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your NVQ or equivalent in professional cookery and any food hygiene certifications. If you have experience overseeing kitchen operations, be sure to mention it as it aligns with the responsibilities of the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, double-check your application for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in a kitchen environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at OnetoOne Personnel
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for cooking and food preparation during the interview. Share specific examples of dishes you love to create and how you stay updated with culinary trends.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Second Chef, you'll need to support the Head Chef and oversee the kitchen when they're absent. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences and how you handle team dynamics in a busy kitchen environment.
✨Highlight Your Experience with High-Volume Cooking
Since the role involves preparing high-volume meals, share your experience in similar settings. Discuss how you manage time and resources effectively to ensure quality and efficiency during peak service times.
✨Emphasise Food Safety and Hygiene Knowledge
Food hygiene is crucial in any kitchen. Be ready to talk about your qualifications, such as your Food Hygiene Level 2 or 3, and provide examples of how you maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety in your cooking practices.
