At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef and lead a team in a vibrant university kitchen.
- Company: Join the University of Bath's dynamic Hospitality Department.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £1,000 bonus, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while honing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in kitchen supervision and strong food safety knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 26707 - 30378 £ per year.
About the role
This role is eligible for the Campus Services New Starter Bonus (£1,000) and Campus Services Refer a Friend bonus. The University Hospitality Department provides catering to students, staff and external customers throughout the academic year and during the summer months. There are numerous outlets offering a range of food and drink options. As a Sous Chef, you will support the Head Chef in the day-to-day running of the kitchen and take responsibility for all aspects of kitchen operations in their absence. You will lead and support a team of junior kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, food safety and customer service. You will also contribute to menu development, stock and cost control, and work with the Hospitality Management Team to deliver a high-quality catering service. This is a varied role working 36.5 hours per week, 5 days over 7, including early mornings, evenings and weekends. Training and uniforms are provided.
About you
- Experience of supervising and leading a kitchen team
- Strong knowledge of food safety, HACCP and health and safety
- Understanding of catering costs, stock management and portion control
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure
- The ability to motivate, support and develop team members
- A flexible and adaptable approach to changing priorities
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team
Further information
This is a full-time, permanent position working 36.5 hours per week. For an informal discussion about the role please contact Patricia Echegaray, Hospitality Operations Manager, however please ensure that you submit your application through the university website.
We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equity and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university.
What we can offer you
- Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balance
- Generous employer contributory pension schemes
- Cycle to work scheme
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- Staff discount at Team Bath gym
- Staff benefits include discounted postgraduate tuition and language courses, alongside a wide range of personal and professional development opportunities such as apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning, and more
- Local discounts, including free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath
- A family-friendly workplace
- An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce
- Relocation allowance
- Visa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with the cost of some immigration expenses
- Employee assistance services through Health Assured, including access to the Wisdom app
Be Well at Bath
We’re committed to creating a health-supporting working environment where everyone can thrive and be at their best. We offer a range of resources to enable you to do that from your first day here, including: Staff support groups and networks, a network of Staff Wellbeing Champions, and a suite of tools, resources and frameworks that enable you to be at your best and thrive.
Closing Date: 23 Sep 2026
Department: Operations & Facilities Support
Salary: £26,707 to £30,378
Sous Chef (KD13917) - Bath, BA2 7AY employer: University of Bath
SETsquared Bath is an exceptional employer, fostering a vibrant work culture that champions innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer extensive professional development opportunities, generous benefits, and a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion. Located in the heart of Bath, our team enjoys a family-friendly workplace with a focus on wellbeing, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef (KD13917) - Bath, BA2 7AY
✨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 University of Bath. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to University of Bath
Don't be shy about reaching out to University of Bath 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 Sous Chef (KD13917) - Bath, BA2 7AY
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 University of Bath 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 University of Bath
✨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!