Chef de Partie
Caterham, Surrey, United Kingdom
From £12.21/hr · On-site · Casual / Full-time options · Dependent on qualifications and experience
UK Candidates with Right to Work Only
We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Chef with deep expertise in authentic Pakistani cuisine to join the kitchen brigade at Silk Road. This role suits a professional who takes pride in traditional regional flavours — including Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, and Mughlai specialities — and who can thrive in a fast-paced, high-standards environment.
The successful candidate will contribute to the smooth and efficient running of a busy kitchen, uphold exceptional culinary standards, and ensure consistency across all dishes.
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Key Responsibilities
* Prepare and cook a wide range of traditional Pakistani dishes, including tandoori items, curries, biryanis, grills, snacks, and breads.
* Execute menu items to consistent, high-quality standards with proper mise en place and preparation discipline.
* Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised kitchen environment at all times.
* Ensure full compliance with UK food safety, hygiene, and allergen regulations.
* Manage stock levels, rotation, ordering, and minimise wastage.
* Train, guide, and support junior kitchen staff where required.
* Work closely with management to refine recipes and develop new menu items.
* Follow all health & safety procedures and adhere to established kitchen SOPs.
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Requirements
* Minimum 3–5 years of professional experience in a commercial kitchen, specialising in Pakistani cuisine.
* Current Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above).
* Strong understanding of HACCP, allergen management, cross-contamination controls, and kitchen safety.
* Fluent in spoken English; able to communicate effectively with both kitchen and front-of-house teams.
* Basic literacy and numeracy skills for reading recipes, recording prep lists, and managing stock.
* Ability to work calmly under pressure and maintain consistency during busy service.
* Punctual, professional, reliable, and team-oriented.
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Desirable Skills
* Formal culinary training or professional qualifications. Typically:
o Level 2/3 NVQ in Professional Cookery.
o City & Guilds certificate in Professional Catering.
o Level 3 Chef de Partie BTEC.
o Diploma in Professional Cookery.
* Knowledge of multi-regional Pakistani dishes (e.g., Kashmiri, Hyderabadi, Karachi street food).
* Experience in high-volume or branded restaurants.
* Familiarity with cost control, portioning, and profitability.
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What We Offer
* A supportive, respectful, and professional working environment.
* Opportunities for skill development and career progression as the brand expands.
* Staff meals provided during shifts.
* Potential for performance-based incentives.