Chef – Short Term Camp (ESS – Compass Group) Location: Crickhowell & Various Training Areas across Wales and the West Midlands
Salary: £14.25 per hour
⏰ Hours: 40 hours per week (flexible, condensed schedule)
About the RoleWe’re currently recruiting an experienced and motivated Chef to join our team at the Short Term Camp, Crickhowell, as part of ESS – Compass Group.
You’ll play a key role in supporting Army Cadet training camps, catering for up to 150 cadets at one time across a variety of sites in Wales and the West Midlands. ️
This is a mobile role where you’ll work in a team of around 14, travelling to different training locations — including some remote areas — providing essential catering support to cadet staff and trainees.
Key DetailsPay: £14.25 per hour
Hours: 40 hours per week (condensed into 3–4 working days)
Typical Day: 05:30 – 19:30 (with breaks)
Enhanced Pay: £30 per night for certain remote locations ️
Camp Closure: 2 weeks over Christmas
Overtime: Opportunities for extra hours available
Service times and working hours can vary depending on the specific needs of locations and cadet training schedules.
ResponsibilitiesPrepare and serve nutritious meals for Army Cadets and staff
Work as part of a mobile catering team delivering high-volume food service
Maintain food hygiene, cleanliness, and health & safety standards
Adapt to changing locations and kitchen setups as needed
Support with stock control, deliveries, and kitchen organisation
Experience and QualificationsPrevious experience as a Chef or in a similar catering role – essential
Relevant qualification (e.g., NVQ Level 2 or equivalent) – desirable
Full UK driving licence – essential
Comfortable driving larger vehicles (training provided)
Flexible and adaptable to changing environments
Strong teamwork and communication skills
Why join ESS – Compass Group?Competitive pay with enhanced travel allowance
Free training and career development through ESS career pathways
Work within a supportive and experienced team
All travel, accommodation, and training expenses covered
Be part of an organisation that supports the UK’s Armed Forces community
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
Contributory pension scheme
Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, (url removed) and many more
Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
About Us
Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.
Job Reference: com/3110/(phone number removed)/(phone number removed)/R/SU #Defence
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength