Second Chef – Lead Breakfast Brilliance at Derbyshire's No.1 Village Brunch Spot!
Location: Ockbrook, Derby
Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Days: Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
Type: Full-Time
The Role:
We’re looking for a talented, passionate Second Chef to help lead the charge in one of Derbyshire’s most loved kitchens. If you live for breakfast and brunch, love working in a dynamic team, and want to make your mark on a creative, seasonal menu, this could be your dream role.
You’ll be a key player in our kitchen operations, working side-by-side with our Head Chef to deliver consistently delicious dishes, shape menu development, and keep service running smoothly. With a loyal customer base and fast-paced mornings, this role is perfect for someone who thrives under pressure and wants to help steer the future of a thriving independent restaurant.
What You’ll Be Doing:
* Cooking and presenting breakfast and lunch dishes to a consistently high standard
* Playing a vital role in menu development and daily kitchen operations
* Leading the kitchen when the Head Chef is away
* Managing stock rotation, ordering, and inventory
* Upholding top tier food hygiene and health & safety standards
* Assisting with prep for occasional evening bistro events
* Collaborating with a tight-knit, passionate kitchen and front-of-house team
What We’re Looking For:
* 3–5 years of professional kitchen experience, including time in a leadership or supervisory role
* A genuine love of breakfast food and morning culture
* Cool, confident, and focused under pressure
* Organised, reliable, and able to lead a team when needed
* High attention to detail and a strong work ethic
* A team player who takes pride in great food and service
Why Join The Apple Tree?
Be part of a well-established, independent business with 13+ years of success
Join a kitchen named Derby’s No.1 brunch spot and featured on national TV
Have a real voice in menu creativity and kitchen direction
Enjoy daytime-only hours and a great work-life balance
Receive bonus pay based on performance
Enjoy fabulous drinks, team perks, and full holiday entitlement
Work with a friendly, ambitious team that’s serious about great food
If you thrive in a fast-paced, team-focused setting and love creating unforgettable breakfasts and brunches, we’d love to hear from you.
To Apply:
Send your CV and a covering letter.
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Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Free parking
Application question(s):
* What culinary training do you have?
Experience:
* Kitchen: 4 years (required)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person