At a Glance
- Tasks: Run the kitchen, prepare seasonal dishes, and manage stock efficiently.
- Company: A growing brunch café with a passionate and supportive team.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, staff meals, and a relaxed working environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth and creative involvement in a dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact and help shape an exciting new menu.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Junior Sous Chef or Sous Chef in a fresh-food kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
We’re looking for an experienced, permanent Sous Chef who’s ready for a new challenge and wants to play a key role in shaping the future of a growing brunch café. We are a small team, who are passionate, supportive and genuinely enjoy what we do - and we are looking for someone who wants to grow with us.
Our food is centred around seasonal, hearty dishes made with care — quality brunch plates, fresh ingredients, comforting flavours, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. We are a team where everyone helps each other out, communication matters and hard work is appreciated.
We’re currently evolving our menu and concept to attract a new customer base, so this is a great opportunity for someone who wants more responsibility, creative involvement, and the chance to help build something exciting from the ground up.
This role is ideal for someone confident running a kitchen independently alongside a Kitchen Porter, while maintaining high standards across all areas of the kitchen.
The Role
- You’ll be responsible for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, ensuring consistency, cleanliness, organisation, and smooth service while helping develop the direction of the food offering.
- A typical working day would begin at 7:30am and end at 4pm, although we are looking for someone who can be flexible. Weekend work is required.
Key Responsibilities
- Running the kitchen independently during prep and service
- Preparing fresh seasonal dishes to a high standard
- Managing stock control, rotation, and kitchen organisation
- Placing orders and monitoring stock levels efficiently
- Maintaining a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment
- Ensuring all food hygiene and health & safety standards are followed
- Opening and closing the kitchen
- Training and supporting junior staff and Kitchen Porters
- Assisting with menu ideas, specials, and kitchen development
- Managing prep schedules and reducing waste
- Maintaining consistency and attention to detail in every dish
What We’re Looking For
- Previous experience as a Junior Sous Chef or Sous Chef in a fresh-food kitchen
- Someone organised, reliable, and able to work independently
- Passion for cooking and seasonal comfort food
- Strong understanding of kitchen operations and food safety
- Confident managing stock and maintaining kitchen standards
- Positive attitude and willingness to help grow the business
- Flexible approach and strong work ethic
What We Offer
- Competitive pay depending on experience
- Opportunity to have real input into menus and kitchen direction
- Supportive and relaxed working environment
- A chance to grow with the business as it develops
- Staff meals and good coffee included
If you’re looking for a role where you can genuinely make an impact and help shape a growing brunch restaurant, we would love to hear from you.
Sous Chef in Basildon employer: Only Chefs Ltd
Join our passionate and supportive team at our growing brunch café, where you will have the opportunity to shape our evolving menu and contribute to a warm, welcoming atmosphere. We offer competitive pay, staff meals, and a chance for personal growth as we develop together, making this an ideal environment for those who thrive on creativity and collaboration in the kitchen.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef in Basildon
✨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 Only Chefs Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Only Chefs Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Only Chefs Ltd 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 Sous Chef in Basildon
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 Only Chefs Ltd 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 Only Chefs Ltd
✨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!
