At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead our production kitchen and create exceptional food at scale.
- Company: Join a family-run business with a rich history since 1978.
- Benefits: Up to £20 per hour, no late nights, and 50% staff discount.
- Other info: Enjoy a positive kitchen culture with clear values and growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape future menus and develop your culinary skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in a senior chef role and strong leadership skills required.
Production Chef
The Waffle House | St Albans & Harpenden
Up to £20 per hour including tronc
40 hour contract
We're looking for an experienced Production Chef to join our family-run business and help shape the next chapter of The Waffle House.
Founded in 1978 and now third-generation family owned, we've always believed in doing things properly. Fresh food, high welfare ingredients, sustainability and quality have been at the heart of what we do from the very beginning.
This is a hands-on role for someone who loves organisation, consistency and producing exceptional food at scale. You'll lead our production kitchen, ensuring every sauce, preparation and component leaving the kitchen meets the high standards our guests expect.
You'll report directly to the Head Chef and play an important role in developing new specials, refining core menu dishes and helping drive the food offering forward.
What you’ll be doing
- Maintaining consistently high food quality and presentation standards
- Overseeing large-scale food preparation and batch production
- Supporting the Head Chef with menu development and seasonal specials
- Training, motivating and developing team members
- Ensuring excellent food safety and kitchen compliance standards
- Managing prep schedules, stock and production efficiencies
- Helping maintain a positive, supportive kitchen culture
What we’re looking for
You will:
- Have strong experience in a senior chef or production chef role
- Have experience managing and developing kitchen teams
- Have excellent attention to detail
- Take genuine pride in producing consistently high-quality food
- Be highly organised and calm under pressure
- Have experience with high-volume or mass food production
- Hold high standards around cleanliness, food safety and consistency
- Live locally to St Albans or Harpenden
- Hold a full driving licence and have your own vehicle
What we offer
- Up to £20 per hour including tronc
- No late nights — we close at 5pm on weekdays and 7pm at weekends
- 50% staff discount on food
- Comprehensive training and development programme
- The opportunity to help create new dishes and shape future menus
- A supportive family-run business with clear values and long-term opportunities
If you're passionate about great food, strong leadership and producing consistently high standards, we'd love to hear from you.
Join a business that's been doing things properly since 1978.
#J-18808-LjbffrProduction Chef employer: The Waffle House St Albans
The Waffle House St Albans is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture where creativity and passion for food thrive. With a focus on employee well-being, you will benefit from a comprehensive training programme, generous annual leave, and a supportive team environment, all while enjoying the convenience of no late nights. Join us to be part of a community that values fresh, local produce and fosters personal growth in a rewarding culinary career.
Contact Details:
The Waffle House St Albans Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Chef
✨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 The Waffle House St Albans. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Waffle House St Albans
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Waffle House St Albans 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 Production Chef
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 The Waffle House St Albans 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 The Waffle House St Albans
✨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!
