DEPARTMENT/SCHOOL: Estates JOB TITLE: Chef SALARY & HOURS: Band 2, 35 hours per week £26,290 Full-time - hours to be worked on a rota basis, including evenings and weekends as required The University of Buckingham offers a unique atmosphere, unlike any other higher education institution. As the UK's smallest university and the only independent one with a Royal Charter, we bring together a diverse and vibrant community of staff and students from over 60 countries. Our size allows us to provide a highly personalised, supportive, and collaborative environment with significant opportunities for professional development. We take great pride in the inclusive culture we foster here. The Estates Department is looking for a passionate and skilled Chef to join our in-house Catering Services team. Working under the direction of the Head Chef, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality, nutritious, and engaging food for students, staff, and visitors. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a growing catering offer that supports student experience, wellbeing, and community engagement. Key Responsibilities: Prepare, cook, and present high-quality meals for daily service, events, and special functions. Support the Head Chef in developing creative, seasonal menus, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary options. Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, presentation, and portion control. Assist with catering for university events, themed food nights, workshops, and senior university functions. Support stock control, ordering, and rotation of ingredients to minimise waste and maintain service levels. Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health and safety, and allergen regulations at all times. Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised kitchen environment. Provide support to kitchen staff as required. Engage positively with students and colleagues, contributing to a welcoming and inclusive catering environment. About You: We are seeking a motivated individual with: A recognised culinary qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery or equivalent). Food Hygiene Level 3 certification (or willingness to obtain). Proven experience working as a Chef in a professional kitchen environment. Strong organisational skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced setting. A creative approach to menu development with an understanding of diverse dietary needs. Excellent teamwork and communication skills. A flexible approach to working hours, including evenings and weekends to support events and service requirements. A positive, proactive attitude with a passion for delivering excellent food and service. What We Offer: Although we are a smaller institution, we offer a range of benefits including: Beautiful working environments across our Buckingham campuses 30 days annual leave Employee Assistance Programme On-site gym On-site catering facilities University bookshop with staff discount (Buckingham) Free on-site parking Discounted courses for staff and their families Closing date: 30/06/2026 Interviews: To be confirmed Please note: suitable candidates may be contacted, interviewed, and appointed prior to the closing date. Any offer of employment is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including eligibility to work in the UK on a permanent basis and DBS clearance (if applicable). For further information and to apply, please visit: http://www.buckingham.ac.uk/about/hr/