At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Development Chef in creating innovative food concepts and managing kitchen operations.
- Company: Join a renowned food business focused on quality and innovation.
- Benefits: Hands-on experience, creative environment, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced setting with a focus on sustainability and excellence.
- Why this job: Dive into food innovation and make your mark in product development.
- Qualifications: Experience in a professional kitchen and a passion for food trends.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 31200 £ per year.
Some kitchens teach you how to cook. Others teach you how to create. This is an opportunity to step into a development environment where ideas move quickly from concept to customer, and where food innovation sits at the heart of everything. Working with an established and highly regarded food business, this role offers hands‑on exposure to the full new product development journey within a fast‑paced, commercially focused setting.
As Assistant Development Chef, you’ll support the Development Chef in bringing new food concepts to life. The role blends kitchen‑based development with structured NPD processes, giving you the chance to build your technical capability while contributing directly to live projects for agreed markets and existing clients. You’ll be immersed in product trials, tastings and presentations, while also playing a key role in keeping the development kitchen operating to the highest standards.
Key Accountabilities- Supporting the Development Chef and wider culinary team to interpret briefs, timelines and cost parameters
- Producing high‑quality food samples for internal reviews, customer presentations and manufacturer trials
- Assisting with the preparation, development and refinement of new product concepts in line with agreed briefs and brand standards
- Setting up, supporting and cleaning down for tastings, reviews and customer presentations
- Maintaining organisation, cleanliness and safe operation of the development kitchen in line with Health & Safety requirements
- Managing day‑to‑day kitchen duties including hygiene, equipment cleaning, stock control, stock rotation, ordering and labelling
- Building strong working relationships internally and externally, demonstrating enthusiasm for food innovation
- Learning and following the full product development process, including stage gates and required documentation
- Experience working as a chef within a professional kitchen environment
- A genuine passion for food, flavour and global food trends
- Level 2 Food Hygiene & Safety qualification
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment
- Basic IT skills including Word, Excel and PowerPoint
- Confident communication skills and a collaborative, team‑focused approach
- An interest in developing a long‑term career within food innovation and product development
Behind the scenes, you’ll be joining a business with a strong reputation for quality, innovation and service. Sustainability, people and product excellence are embedded into how the business operates day to day. We regret we can not offer visa sponsorship and can only consider candidates who hold right to work in the UK.
To apply, please e‑mail in strict confidence, with a comprehensive CV, including salary details, quoting the above reference and for the attention of James Constable. Due to a high volume of responses, we cannot reply to each application individually. If you have not had a response within one week, we are sorry to say your application has not been successful on this occasion.
Assistant Development Chef in Guildford employer: The People Co
Join a dynamic and innovative food business that prioritises creativity and quality in its development kitchen. As an Assistant Development Chef, you'll thrive in a collaborative environment that fosters personal growth and offers hands-on experience in new product development, all while being part of a company committed to sustainability and excellence. With a focus on food innovation and a supportive team culture, this role provides a unique opportunity to advance your culinary career in a fast-paced setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Development Chef in Guildford
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like The People Co.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from The People Co!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like The People Co, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at The People Co, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Development Chef in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at The People Co, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at The People Co.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to The People Co. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at The People Co. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at The People Co
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to The People Co’s mission.
