Company Overview
Castle Howard Estate Ltd is a renowned visitor attraction located just outside York, celebrated for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Each year we welcome nearly 300,000 visitors, offering a diverse range of experiences including cafés, shops, and events within our historic estate.
Summary
Castle Howard is looking for an enthusiastic Chef Assistant to join our friendly kitchen and café team.
This is a great opportunity for someone looking to start or develop their career in catering, with full training and guidance provided. You'll gain hands-on experience in both bakery production and café kitchen service, with the option to progress towards a formal apprenticeship if desired.
This role offers daytime hours, no super-early starts or late-night shifts, giving you a great work-life balance in a unique and inspiring heritage environment.
Typical shifts:
Fixed daytime hours - 7:30am-4:00pm, with evenings free.
Occasional evenings for special events.
Weekend shifts shared across the team (not every weekend).
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Assist with preparing bakery items and café dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Support the kitchen team during busy service periods.
Learn how to follow recipes and develop skills in food preparation and presentation.
Help maintain a clean, organised, and safe kitchen environment.
Work with the team to minimise waste and keep stock areas well supplied.
Follow Castle Howard's food safety and Health & Safety policies.
Undertake other reasonable duties to support the catering team as required.
Person Specification
Knowledge & Experience:
No previous professional kitchen experience required - training will be provided.
A genuine interest in food, cooking, or baking.
Willingness to learn and develop new skills.
Good communication and teamwork skills.
Punctual, reliable, and enthusiastic.
Desirable:
Basic food preparation or kitchen experience (e.g., café, restaurant, school/college course).
An interest in completing a catering apprenticeship.
Knowledge of basic food hygiene.
What We Offer
Full uniform provided.
A beautiful working environment within one of the UK's most iconic stately homes.
Fixed daytime hours - 7:30am-4:00pm, with evenings free.
Occasional evenings for special events.
Staff discounts, free parking, and meals on duty.
Training and development opportunities, with the potential to complete a catering apprenticeship.
A supportive, welcoming team to help you build confidence and skills.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
Company pension
On-site parking
Referral programme
Store discount
Licence/Certification:
Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person