At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to create amazing campus food experiences and develop your culinary skills.
- Company: A forward-thinking university committed to sustainability and nutrition.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a real difference in campus dining.
- Qualifications: Level 2 Hospitality and Catering or equivalent experience, with a love for food.
credit_card Salary Grade 4 - Full Time - 36 hours per week - £26707 - £30378 per annum (Enhanced Pay outside of core working hours)
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
The Further Particulars for each job are in PDF format, which can be read by Adobe Acrobat or Acrobat Reader.
Job details
Salary Grade 4 - Full Time - 36 hours per week - £26707 - £30378 per annum (Enhanced Pay outside of core working hours)
Contractual hours 36
Basis Full time
Job category/type Ancillary and Operational Support, Manual
The closing date for applications is 23.59 on 5 th October 2026
Interviews will be held: W/C 12 th October 2026 on our Whiteknights Campus and will last 2-3 hours.
This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. The successful candidate(s) will have to ensure that they have the right to work in the UK or be able to secure this through another means without the sponsorship of the University. Further information about sponsorship is available on the UK Visas and Immigration Website .
We are different so forget any ideas of what you think we do….
We are looking for a Chef de Partie whoshares our passion forgreat food to join us onour journey to createthe best campus food experience.This post is a junior post within our team and will involve working with our Aspiring Chef team. This Post will help develop any aspiring chefs core skills and future progression with in the team.
We producefresh, nutritious and tasty dishes from scratch,with our menus changing daily andfollowing seasonality across six kitchens.
We are committed to the 24 Principles of Menus of Change, guiding our thinking around nutrition and sustainability. Weare the first European Member of the Menus of Change Universities Research Collaborative (MCURC). MCURC is a group of 70 like-minded Universities committed to using academic and operational research to improve the health of individuals and the planet.
The University operate three teams of Chefs, each reporting to a Head Chef covering our Hotel, Cafes, Bars, Event Catering and large Dining Halls.. Staff regularly move between teams to ensure professional development.
You will have:
- City and Guilds Hospitality and Catering - Level 2 (7132) or equivalent experience of a wide range of Hospitality settings
- Keen interest in food, an understanding of food preparation and knowledge of ingredients
- Ability to remain calm under pressure.
We operate a skills based assessment alongside our Chefs in a Kitchen. There is no interview in a meeting room. You need to be wearing appropriate clothing/footwear for Kitchen and bring your own knives. We can provide these on advanced request.
You’ll be asked to complete tasks and assessed on how you complete them. You are free to use your ‘phone for information such as recipes. We may provide written recipes for you to follow. Our team are on-hand to help you use any unfamiliar equipment.
We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role can be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying.
All applications must be made via the University website.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
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Chef de Partie in Reading employer: University of Reading
The University of Reading is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises the safety and security of its community. With competitive salaries and a commitment to employee development, staff can expect ample opportunities for growth and advancement within a supportive culture. Located at the picturesque Whiteknights campus, employees enjoy a vibrant atmosphere that fosters collaboration and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef de Partie in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, dive into their values and mission. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and nutrition will help you connect your passion for food with their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a mate or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role of Chef de Partie and be ready to showcase your culinary skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your personality! When you’re in the interview, let your enthusiasm for food shine through. Share stories about your experiences in the kitchen and how you handle pressure – it’ll make you memorable!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the best campus food experience.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef de Partie in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your experiences and what drives you in the kitchen. We want to see that you're not just a chef, but someone who truly cares about creating great food.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail your experience in hospitality and catering. If you've got City and Guilds qualifications or similar, flaunt them! We’re looking for someone with a solid background, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we want to see your personality, remember to keep it professional. Use a friendly tone but avoid being too casual. We’re looking for someone who can fit into our team while also bringing their unique flair to the table.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget, all applications need to be submitted via our university website. It’s super easy, and this way, we can ensure your application gets to the right place. So, head over there and get your application in before the deadline!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Know Your Ingredients
Brush up on your knowledge of ingredients and food preparation techniques. Be ready to discuss your favourite dishes and how you would prepare them, as this shows your passion for food and your understanding of the culinary arts.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be working with the Aspiring Chef team, highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated in previous roles, especially under pressure, to create a positive dining experience.
✨Embrace Sustainability
Familiarise yourself with the 24 Principles of Menus of Change. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to sustainability in the kitchen, as this aligns with the university's commitment to health and the planet.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
Prepare for situational questions that test your ability to remain cheerful and calm during busy service times. Think of specific instances where you managed stress effectively and kept the team motivated.
