Commis Chef Location: Woodford Green
Salary: £25,500 £26,500 per annum (depending on experience)
Contract: Full-time, Term Time (34 weeks) + 2 additional weeks
Working Hours Monday to Friday, 7:00am 3:30pm (including a 30-minute unpaid lunch break).
Flexibility is required to meet the needs of the School.
About the Role We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Commis Chef to join a catering team at an private, independent school in Woodford Green. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their culinary skills in a professional kitchen environment.
You will support senior chefs in delivering high-quality food by assisting with preparation, basic cooking, and maintaining excellent hygiene standards. You will rotate through different kitchen sectionssuch as pastry, garnish, salads, and saucesgaining valuable hands-on experience and building a strong foundation for career progression.
You will report to the Junior Sous Chefs and be line managed by the Chef de Partie.
Key Responsibilities Assist in preparing and cooking food to the Schools high standards
Follow portion control and production guidelines
Ensure timely and efficient food service
Maintain clean, organised workstations
Rotate through kitchen sections as required
Complete all required documentation
Health, Safety & Hygiene Adhere to all health and safety regulations
Maintain high standards of food hygiene
Report any issues or breaches to senior chefs
Support compliance with statutory requirements
Menu Development Stay informed on food trends and innovations
Contribute ideas for menus and events
Support initiatives promoting healthy eating
General Duties Work collaboratively with the catering team and school staff
Attend meetings and training sessions
Follow school policies and procedures
Maintain a professional and positive working environment
Undertake any additional duties as required
Person Specification Essential GCSEs in Maths and English (or equivalent)
NVQ Level 1 (or equivalent)
At least 2 years experience in catering
Passion for cooking with fresh, quality ingredients
Strong communication and organisational skills
Ability to work under pressure in a calm and efficient manner
Team player with a flexible and hardworking attitude
Desirable NVQ Level 2
Intermediate Food Hygiene Certificate
Experience across kitchen sections (pastry, garnish, salads, sauces)
Experience in large-scale catering operations
Knowledge of HACCP, risk assessments, and manual handling
What We Offer Competitive salary based on experience
Structured working hours with a good work-life balance
Opportunities for training and career development
Supportive and professional working environment
If youre passionate about food and eager to grow your culinary career, wed love to hear from you.
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