At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef in creating delicious dishes and managing kitchen operations.
- Company: Join a vibrant team at RHS Garden Wisley, surrounded by stunning nature.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, free meals, and 20 days annual leave.
- Other info: Access to training and development opportunities in a beautiful setting.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative kitchen culture and make an impact on guest experiences.
- Qualifications: 3+ years as a Chef de Partie with strong cooking skills and team supervision experience.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 33000 £ per year.
Contract Type: Full-time, permanent, site based, 5 over 7 days per week.
Salary: Up to £33,000 per annum.
Location: RHS Garden Wisley. Set within 240 acres of stunning gardens, Wisley is open all year round and offers a variety of food outlets from a busy restaurant to welcoming cafés.
A Junior Sous Chef at Wisley will support the Head Chef in ensuring all dishes consistently meet RA Venues' standards for quality, flavour, presentation, and sustainability. You will assist with seasonal menus, specials, and new dish launches, respond to guest feedback and allergen queries, and help maintain high visual and brand standards across counters, displays, and food offerings.
Operational responsibilities include:
- Portion control
- Recipe adherence
- Efficient mise en place
- Stock management
- Minimising waste
- Ensuring full compliance with the Food Safety Management System (FSMS) and all health, hygiene, and safety regulations
You will also supervise and support the kitchen team during prep, service, and close‐down, assisting with training commis chefs and CDPs to consistently meet standards. This role involves fostering a positive, collaborative, and respectful kitchen culture, supporting onboarding of new team members, and encouraging personal development, ensuring the team is motivated, confident, and equipped to deliver an exceptional experience for every guest.
The Ideal Candidate
- 3+ years' experience as a Chef de Partie or Senior Chef de Partie in a high-volume, quality-led kitchen
- Strong cooking skills with an understanding of seasonality
- Knowledge of food safety, health & safety, and allergen management
- Experience supervising a kitchen team
- Able to complete food safety records accurately
- Experience in contract catering or visitor-attraction venues
- Level 2 or 3 food safety qualification
- Interest in bakery, deli, or counter-style service
What Can We Offer You
- A collaborative and inclusive culture, where your ideas are valued, and creativity is encouraged.
- The chance to work in a truly beautiful and inspiring setting, surrounded by nature and stunning gardens.
- 20 days annual leave (Excluding bank holidays and national holiday days)
- Free parking on site
- Free staff meals whilst at work
- Access to Compass Group company perks & benefits
- Perks for Works discounts and promotions
- Access to training, mentoring and development, with support from our wider Restaurant Associates and Compass Group UK networks.
- On-site F&B discounts.
Restaurant Associates is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
Junior Sous Chef - RHS Garden Wisley in Woking employer: Restaurant Associates UK
At RHS Garden Wisley, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive culture where creativity thrives. Working amidst 240 acres of breathtaking gardens, our Junior Sous Chef role not only provides competitive salary and benefits but also ample opportunities for personal and professional growth through training and mentorship. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering outstanding culinary experiences in a truly inspiring environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Sous Chef - RHS Garden Wisley in Woking
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Chat with fellow chefs, attend culinary events, and connect with people in the industry. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, bring a portfolio of your best dishes or even offer to do a trial shift. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to restaurants or venues you admire, like RHS Garden Wisley. Express your interest and ask if they’re looking for someone with your skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep it positive! When you get an interview, focus on your passion for food and teamwork. Show that you’re not just a great cook but also someone who can inspire and lead a kitchen team.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Sous Chef - RHS Garden Wisley in Woking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Skills:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your cooking skills and experience. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of Junior Sous Chef, so don’t hold back on showcasing your passion for food and seasonality!
Be Specific About Your Experience:Mention your previous roles and responsibilities clearly. We’re looking for someone with at least 3 years in a high-volume kitchen, so let us know how you’ve supervised teams and managed kitchen operations in your past jobs.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we love a friendly tone, remember to keep your application professional. Share a bit about yourself and why you’re excited about working at RHS Garden Wisley, but also ensure you maintain a level of professionalism throughout.
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 this fantastic opportunity in a beautiful setting!
How to prepare for a job interview at Restaurant Associates UK
✨Know Your Ingredients
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of seasonal ingredients and how they impact flavour and presentation. Be ready to discuss your favourite dishes and how you would incorporate seasonal produce into the menu at RHS Garden Wisley.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
As a Junior Sous Chef, you'll be part of a team. Highlight your experience in supervising and training kitchen staff. Share examples of how you've fostered a positive kitchen culture and supported your colleagues in achieving high standards.
✨Be Prepared for Practical Questions
Expect questions about food safety and allergen management. Brush up on your knowledge of the Food Safety Management System (FSMS) and be ready to explain how you ensure compliance in a busy kitchen environment.
✨Bring Your Creativity
This role involves creating new dishes and specials, so don’t hold back on showcasing your creativity. Prepare to discuss any unique ideas you have for menus or presentations that could enhance the dining experience at Wisley.
