At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to create nutritious meals for the ship's crew while performing essential duties.
- Company: Join the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, supporting the Royal Navy's global operations.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, earned leave, pension scheme, and world-class training.
- Other info: Embrace adventure and teamwork while cooking for those at sea.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your culinary skills in exciting environments.
- Qualifications: Must be 17.5+, with Level 2 NVQ in Professional Cookery and Food Safety certification.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 43900 £ per year.
What you\'ll do
As a Chef in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), you\'ll be part of the team that provides healthy and nutritious meals for your ship\'s company. Your hard work is what keeps them going, and vital operations on track.
The RFA is responsible for making sure the Royal Navy has everything it needs to continue protecting our nation\'s interests all over the world. So, as you develop your cookery skills, you\'ll make an increasingly important contribution to a truly global effort, whether you\'re getting breakfast out on time, or catering for a unit of Royal Marines about to deploy.
Your role
- Continue your professional cookery career by leading a team and creating varied menus for the entire crew.
- Outside of the galley, you\'ll have crucial duties to perform as part of the ship\'s company, including firefighting, first aid, and being a member of the damage control team.
- Unlike most civilian chef roles, you\'ll have real responsibility from the day you start, working in challenging environments all over the world.
- It\'s your job to make the ship feel like a home from home for your crewmates. Many of them will be at sea for months at a time and will look forward to the food you cook, whether it\'s Friday Fish, or dinner for a social event.
Pay & benefits
- A starting salary of £34,000 to £43,900 dependant on experience
- Earned Voyage Leave (EVL) of 21 days for every month spent on board ship
- Membership of a Civil Service Pension Scheme
- World-class training
- Potential to travel the world
Skills for life
Qualifications you\'ll gain
- Fully funded Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) certification portfolio
- The ability to conduct a range of catering activities across the full spectrum of the Galley
Skills you\'ll develop
- Training will be a constant feature of your time with us, as you receive world-class development packages
Eligibility
- Aged at least 17 years 6 months to apply, and 18 years to commence employment. There is no upper age limit
- Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery, or equivalent (MNTB Ship\'s Cook CoC / City & Guilds etc)
- Level 2 or higher Certificate in Food Safety or equivalent
- Existing qualifications and experience in a professional catering environment
- Applications with supervisory experience are highly desirable
- Must be British or have indefinite leave to remain with 5 years residency in UK. Dual Nationality will be considered providing the first nationality is British. Note: Residency restrictions may apply
- Need to have confidence with jumping into water and the ability to wade whilst wearing a life jacket
Skills & Interests
- A passion for cooking
- Drive and enthusiasm
- Enjoy working as part of a team
- A sense of adventure
Joining Process
From picking your role to starting on your first day, these are the steps you\'ll take to join as a rating.
Step 1
Submit an application
Once you\'ve requested your application and provided us with some basic information, you\'ll receive a link to the online application form
Step 2
Confirm eligibility
You will be asked to send us copies of your certification
Step 3
Interview
If you are successful at interview, you will be offered a contract
Qualified Chef (RFA) in Portsmouth employer: Royal Navy
Joining the Royal Fleet Auxiliary as a Qualified Chef offers a unique opportunity to develop your culinary skills while contributing to vital global operations. With a competitive salary, generous leave, and world-class training, you will be part of a supportive team that values your hard work and dedication. Experience the adventure of working at sea, where your role goes beyond cooking to creating a home-like atmosphere for your crewmates, making every meal a cherished moment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Qualified Chef (RFA) in Portsmouth
✨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 Royal Navy. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Royal Navy
Don't be shy about reaching out to Royal Navy 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 Qualified Chef (RFA) in Portsmouth
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 Royal Navy 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 Royal Navy
✨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!
