At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn professional cooking skills and prepare fresh seafood in a supportive kitchen team.
- Company: Join Rockfish, a top seafood restaurant group known for sustainability and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, weekly tips, 28 days holiday, and a paid sabbatical after 10 years.
- Other info: Enjoy a friendly environment with clear career progression and wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Kickstart your culinary career with hands-on training and mentorship from experienced chefs.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just passion for food and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 26000 £ per year.
Love cooking at home? Dream of turning it into a career? This is your chance to join Rockfish and learn from some of the best seafood chefs in the UK — no experience required, just passion, curiosity, and a great attitude. Rockfish, led by Mitch Tonks, is a unique seafood business with 10 restaurants across the Southwest. We serve MSC‑certified fish landed fresh daily from Brixham Fish Market, and we’re proud to be one of the Top 50 Best Companies to Work For in the UK. If you’re excited by fresh ingredients, learning new skills, and building a long‑term career, this is the perfect place to start.
Your Role as a Trainee Chef
- You’ll be part of a supportive kitchen team, learning the foundations of professional cooking from scratch:
- Preparing the freshest seafood and ingredients
- Learning knife skills, prep techniques, and kitchen organisation
- Supporting chefs during service
- Following food safety and hygiene standards
- Growing your confidence in a fast‑paced, friendly environment
You don’t need experience — we’ll teach you everything.
Your Career Path – Grow With Us
We believe in developing our people and promoting from within. As a Trainee Chef, you’ll follow a clear, structured pathway: Trainee Chef → Prep Chef → Commis Chef → Chef de Partie → Junior Sous → Senior Roles
You’ll receive:
- Hands‑on training in seafood
- Knife‑skills coaching
- Food safety
- Mentorship from experienced chefs
What’s in It for You?
Pay & Perks
- Competitive pay + weekly tips via Tip Jar
- Refer‑a‑friend bonuses
Time to Recharge
- Your birthday off
- 28 days holiday
- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing Day OFF
- Winter working patterns with full pay
- 4‑week paid sabbatical after 10 years
Health & Wellbeing
- 24/7 wellbeing support (counselling, financial & legal advice)
- Use of Rockfish paddleboards on your breaks
Why Rockfish?
- Fresh, sustainable seafood
- Developing future chefs
- Creating kitchens where people feel supported and valued
- Building long‑term careers, not short‑term jobs
Ready to Start Your Kitchen Career? Bring your enthusiasm, your love of food, and your willingness to learn. We’ll give you the skills, the support, and the opportunities to grow. Apply now and start your journey with Rockfish.
Prep Chef employer: Salcombe - Restaurant
Rockfish is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its team members, offering a clear career pathway from Trainee Chef to senior roles. With a strong focus on sustainable seafood and a supportive work culture, employees enjoy competitive pay, generous holiday allowances, and unique perks like a paid sabbatical after ten years. Join us in a vibrant kitchen environment where your passion for food can flourish and lead to a rewarding long-term career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prep Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Rockfish and their values. When you show genuine interest in their sustainable seafood practices and kitchen culture, it’ll really help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills at home! Even if you’re a beginner, whipping up some dishes can boost your confidence and give you great talking points when you chat with the chefs during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees. Reach out on social media or through mutual connections. They can provide insider tips about the interview process and what it’s like to work at Rockfish.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about starting your kitchen career with us at Rockfish.
We think you need these skills to ace Prep Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your love for cooking shine through! Share why you’re excited about seafood and what inspires you to join Rockfish. We want to see your enthusiasm!
Keep It Simple:Don’t overcomplicate things! Use clear and straightforward language in your application. We appreciate honesty and clarity, so just be yourself and express your eagerness to learn.
Highlight Your Curiosity:Since we’re looking for people with a curious mindset, mention any experiences that show your willingness to learn new skills. Whether it’s cooking at home or trying out new recipes, we want to hear about it!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get you started on your kitchen career with Rockfish!
How to prepare for a job interview at Salcombe - Restaurant
✨Show Your Passion for Cooking
Make sure to express your love for cooking during the interview. Talk about your experiences in the kitchen, even if they are just home-cooked meals. This will show Rockfish that you have the enthusiasm and curiosity they’re looking for.
✨Demonstrate a Willingness to Learn
Since no experience is required, highlight your eagerness to learn new skills. Mention any relevant courses or cooking shows you've followed, and be ready to discuss how you plan to grow in the role of Trainee Chef.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions about the training process and the kitchen culture at Rockfish. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in the position and want to understand how you can fit into their team.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Attitude
Rockfish values a great attitude and teamwork. Share examples of how you’ve worked well with others in the past, whether in a job, school project, or even in group cooking sessions with friends.
