Prep Chef

Prep Chef

Full-Time 20000 - 28000 £ / year (est.) On-site
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Prepare fresh, vibrant dishes and ensure smooth kitchen operations.
  • Company: Wahaca, the leading Mexican restaurant in the UK with a fun, upbeat atmosphere.
  • Benefits: 70% off food, £100 celebration bonus, early wage access, and free meals.
  • Other info: Exciting career development opportunities and fun events throughout the year.
  • Why this job: Join a passionate team and create memorable dining experiences for guests.
  • Qualifications: Passion for fresh ingredients and teamwork in a lively kitchen.

The predicted salary is between 20000 - 28000 £ per year.

Wahaca is the leading Mexican restaurant in the UK, founded by Thomasina Miers and Mark Selby. Inspired by their time in Mexico and a mission to prove to the UK just how vibrant and delicious Mexican food is, championing great British produce and sourcing ingredients locally. Wahaca remains deeply rooted in the values set by our founders. By showing pride, staying humble, choosing integrity, having fun, and thinking positively, our team serves a taste of Mexican sunshine.

We are currently looking for a Prep Chef who has great passion for working with fresh ingredients, takes pride in creating flavourful, vibrant, high quality dishes and wants to be part of a team that delivers excellent service to all our guests.

How you’ll drive the success:

  • Demonstrate your passion for preparing freshly made dishes following our spec
  • Ensure smooth kitchen operations from setup to closing.
  • Maintain exceptional cleanliness and food safety standards.
  • Work alongside your team to create a lively and efficient kitchen environment.

At Wahaca, we believe our team deserves the best, and here are just some of the perks we offer:

  • FINANCIAL: 70% off food when dining at Wahaca with up to 3 friends, £100 to celebrate your probation in Wahaca, up to £1000 through friend referrals, enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption pay, early access to wages, financial support and discounts through Wagestream.
  • HEALTH AND WELLBEING: Free, nutritious meal every time you work, freshly made by our talented chefs, cycle to work scheme, support from our trained Mental Health First Aiders, time off for when needed; like your child’s first day at school.
  • DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL: Own development plan and clear career path, our very own Masterchef and Cocktail competitions, unwind and turn up the fun at one of our many events across the year.
  • TACOVERSARIES: 1 YEAR: £50 voucher, 2 YEARS: Flight to Mexico!, 5 YEARS: Sabbatical - 4 weeks paid off work!

If you’re inspired by what you’ve read and have a passion for delivering exceptional hospitality, we’d be thrilled to have you join our team!

Prep Chef employer: Wahaca

Wahaca in Brighton is an exceptional employer that prioritises a vibrant work culture and employee growth. With generous perks like food discounts, celebratory bonuses, and the unique opportunity for a free flight to Mexico after two years, we foster an environment where passion for hospitality and team success thrive.

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Contact Details:

Wahaca Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Prep 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 Wahaca. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

✨Reach Out Directly to Wahaca

Don't be shy about reaching out to Wahaca 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 Prep Chef

Passion for Fresh Ingredients
Food Preparation Skills
Attention to Cleanliness
Food Safety Standards
Teamwork
Kitchen Operations Management
Creativity in Dish Presentation

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 Wahaca 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 Wahaca

✨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!