At a Glance
- Tasks: Support chefs in a fast-paced kitchen, ensuring cleanliness and food safety.
- Company: Join the family-run High Force Hotel in the stunning Durham Dales.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 33 days holiday, and discounts at Raby attractions.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team in a unique and beautiful venue.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Experience a vibrant work culture with opportunities for growth and fun events.
The predicted salary is between 1000 - 1400 £ per month.
An exhilarating fast-paced role in a committed and hardworking team, set in the beautiful Durham Dales, an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Raby is a thriving, family-run estate under the stewardship of the Vane family, with a rich heritage and a forward-looking vision. Steeped in history, Raby Castle is surrounded by over 200 acres of beautiful parkland in County Durham. The estate also includes High Force Waterfall, one of England’s most spectacular natural attractions, and the High Force Hotel, which offers accommodation and dining in the heart of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The Kitchen Assistant supports the chefs in maintaining a clean, safe, and well-organised kitchen environment. The role plays a key part in ensuring hygiene, cleanliness, and compliance standards are consistently achieved, enabling the kitchen team to operate efficiently and safely. This position is essential to the overall performance of the kitchen and directly contributes to food safety, operational efficiency, and professional standards.
Our Kitchen Vision
High Force Hotel delivers traditional English cuisine in a heritage setting within Raby Estates. The kitchen culture prioritises:
- High standards of hygiene and food safety
- Organisation and discipline in all working areas
- Teamwork and mutual support
- Consistency in standards across all services
The Kitchen Assistant plays an important role in upholding this environment.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
Kitchen Cleanliness & Hygiene
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the kitchen at all times
- Take responsibility for deep cleaning tasks in line with cleaning schedules
- Ensure dry stores, refrigerators, freezers, appliances, and utensils are kept clean, organised, and in good condition
- Maintain cleanliness of floors, surfaces, walls, sinks, and structural areas of the kitchen
- Support the kitchen team in ensuring the working environment remains hygienic during and after service
Compliance & Food Safety Support
- Follow all food safety, hygiene, and safe working procedures
- Support the kitchen’s hygiene compliance standards and cleaning systems
- Use cleaning chemicals strictly in line with manufacturer instructions and COSHH guidance
- Follow risk assessments and safe systems of work at all times
- Report any hazards, breakages, or concerns promptly
Operational Support to Chefs
- Assist chefs with basic food preparation as directed
- Support kitchen organisation and service readiness
- Ensure equipment, utensils, and cookware are cleaned and available when needed
- Work flexibly to support the needs of the kitchen during busy periods
Team Contribution
- Work positively as part of the kitchen team
- Maintain professional standards of conduct and reliability
- Follow direction from the Lead Chef and Sous Chef
- Contribute to a structured, organised, and professional working environment
Level of Responsibility
The Kitchen Assistant is responsible for:
- Day-to-day cleanliness and organisation of the kitchen environment
- Supporting hygiene compliance through cleaning and safe working practices
- Assisting chefs with preparation and operational tasks
Skills Required
- Understanding of hygiene and cleanliness standards
- Ability to follow instructions and procedures carefully
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
- Previous kitchen experience is desirable but not essential
Qualifications
- Food safety certificate in Food Hygiene (Preferred not essential – will be provided)
Other
The Kitchen Assistant is expected to demonstrate:
- Reliability and strong work ethic
- High personal standards of cleanliness and organisation
- Willingness to support the wider team
- Careful and responsible approach to safety and hygiene
- Positive and cooperative attitude
What we have to Offer
- Attractive salary
- 33 days holiday, including statutory holidays
- Group Pension Scheme with a 7.7% employer contribution with the option to salary sacrifice
- Group Life Insurance
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Health Cash Plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- Buy/Sell Holiday Scheme
- Free on-site car parking
- Discounts at Raby retail and food outlets
- Discounts for stays at Raby’s High Force Hotel
- Complimentary access to Raby Castle and High Force leisure attractions
- A behind-the-scenes tour of Raby Castle
- Invitations to Raby Estate social events throughout the year
- A chance to work in one of the most unique and beautiful venues in the region.
- A role that is dynamic, engaging, and never predictable—no two days will be the same!
- A supportive and enthusiastic team that makes every workday enjoyable.
How to apply
If you feel you have the necessary skills, experience, and personality to undertake this role, please apply below.
Kitchen Assistant at High Force Hotel employer: Raby Estates
Contact Detail:
Raby Estates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant at High Force Hotel
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! If you can, pop by the High Force Hotel and chat with the kitchen staff. Building rapport can give you an edge when it comes to landing that Kitchen Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for food and hygiene during interviews. Share any relevant experiences, even if they’re from home cooking or volunteering. It’s all about demonstrating your commitment to high standards!
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and ready to adapt! The kitchen is a fast-paced environment, so highlight your ability to work under pressure and support your teammates. This will show you’re a perfect fit for their dynamic team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find more info about the role and the amazing perks of working at High Force Hotel.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Assistant at High Force Hotel
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Kitchen: When writing your application, let us know why you're excited about working in a kitchen environment. Share any experiences or moments that sparked your interest in food and cooking. We love to see genuine enthusiasm!
Highlight Your Team Spirit: Since teamwork is key in our fast-paced kitchen, make sure to mention any previous experiences where you worked well with others. Whether it was in a kitchen or another setting, we want to see how you contribute to a positive team dynamic.
Be Clear and Organised: Just like in the kitchen, clarity and organisation matter in your application. Keep your writing concise and structured. Use bullet points if needed to make your skills and experiences stand out—this will help us see your potential at a glance!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy—just follow the prompts and submit your details!
How to prepare for a job interview at Raby Estates
✨Know Your Kitchen Hygiene
Familiarise yourself with basic kitchen hygiene standards and food safety practices. Be ready to discuss how you would maintain cleanliness and organisation in a fast-paced environment, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work well within a team. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues in previous roles, especially in busy situations, to demonstrate that you can contribute positively to the kitchen culture.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Prepare for questions that may involve scenarios you could face in the kitchen. Think about how you would handle cleaning tasks or assist chefs during peak times, showcasing your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
✨Express Your Passion for Food
Let your enthusiasm for food and cooking shine through. Even if you don't have extensive experience, showing a genuine interest in the culinary world and a willingness to learn can set you apart from other candidates.