Job Title: Kitchen Assistant
Reports to: Lead Chef
Department: Leisure and Tourism
Location: High Force Hotel & Waterfall
Hours: 40hrs - Permanent
Rate of Pay: Competitive (above NMW)
Job Ref: VA
Role Purpose
Raby is thriving, family-run estate under the stewardship of the Vane family, with a rich heritage and a forward-looking vision. Steeped in history, Raby Castle is surrounded by over 200 acres of beautiful parkland in County Durham, Raby has been home to generations of the Vane family and remains a vibrant destination offering tourism, hospitality, and events throughout the year.
In addition to Raby Castle and its grounds, the estate also includes High Force Waterfall, one of England's most spectacular natural attractions, and the High Force Hotel, which offers accommodation and dining in the heart of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The estate comprises extensive landholdings across County Durham and Shropshire, with a focus on sustainable land management and stewardship of the countryside.
About the Role
The Kitchen Assistant supports the chefs in maintaining a clean, safe, and well-organised kitchen environment. The role plays a key part in ensuring hygiene, cleanliness, and compliance standards are consistently achieved, enabling the kitchen team to operate efficiently and safely.
This position is essential to the overall performance of the kitchen and directly contributes to food safety, operational efficiency, and professional standards.
Our Kitchen Vision
High Force Hotel delivers traditional English cuisine in a heritage setting within Raby Estates. The kitchen culture prioritises:
* High standards of hygiene and food safety
* Organisation and discipline in all working areas
* Teamwork and mutual support
* Consistency in standards across all services
The Kitchen Assistant plays an important role in upholding this environment.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
1. Kitchen Cleanliness & Hygiene
* Maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the kitchen at all times
* Take responsibility for deep cleaning tasks in line with cleaning schedules
* Ensure dry stores, refrigerators, freezers, appliances, and utensils are kept clean, organised, and in good condition
* Maintain cleanliness of floors, surfaces, walls, sinks, and structural areas of the kitchen
* Support the kitchen team in ensuring the working environment remains hygienic during and after service
2. Compliance & Food Safety Support
* Follow all food safety, hygiene, and safe working procedures
* Support the kitchen's hygiene compliance standards and cleaning systems
* Use cleaning chemicals strictly in line with manufacturer instructions and COSHH guidance
* Follow risk assessments and safe systems of work at all times
* Report any hazards, breakages, or concerns promptly
3. Operational Support to Chefs
* Assist chefs with basic food preparation as directed
* Support kitchen organisation and service readiness
* Ensure equipment, utensils, and cookware are cleaned and available when needed
* Work flexibly to support the needs of the kitchen during busy periods
4. Team Contribution
* Work positively as part of the kitchen team
* Maintain professional standards of conduct and reliability
* Follow direction from the Lead Chef and Sous Chef
* Contribute to a structured, organised, and professional working environment
Level of Responsibility
The Kitchen Assistant is responsible for:
* Day-to-day cleanliness and organisation of the kitchen environment
* Supporting hygiene compliance through cleaning and safe working practices
* Assisting chefs with preparation and operational tasks
Food production responsibility and team supervision remain with the chef team.
Key Performance Indicators - measured through 121's & PDR's
Success in this role will be reflected through:
* Consistently clean and well-maintained kitchen areas
* Compliance with hygiene and safety procedures
* Availability and cleanliness of equipment and utensils
* Effective support provided to chefs during service
* Contribution to an organised and efficient kitchen operation
Skills Required:
* Understanding of hygiene and cleanliness standards
* Ability to follow instructions and procedures carefully
* Good organisational skills and attention to detail
* Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
* Previous kitchen experience is desirable but not essential
Qualifications:
* Food safety certificate in Food Hygiene (Preferred not essential – will be provided)
Knowledge/Experience:
* Experience working in a professional kitchen environment preferred
Other:
Behavioural Expectations
The Kitchen Assistant is expected to demonstrate:
* Reliability and strong work ethic
* High personal standards of cleanliness and organisation
* Willingness to support the wider team
* Careful and responsible approach to safety and hygiene
* Positive and cooperative attitude
What we have to Offer
* Attractive salary
* 33 days holiday, including statutory holidays
* Group Pension Scheme with a 7.7% employer contribution with the option to salary sacrifice
* Group Life Insurance
* Cycle to Work Scheme
* Health Cash Plan
* Employee Assistance Program
* Buy/Sell Holiday Scheme
* Free on-site car parking
* Discounts at Raby retail and food outlets
* Discounts for stays at Raby's High Force Hotel
* Complimentary access to Raby Castle and High Force leisure attractions
* A behind-the-scenes tour of Raby Castle
* Invitations to Raby Estate social events throughout the year
* A chance to work in one of the most unique and beautiful venues in the region.
* A role that is dynamic, engaging, and never predictable—no two days will be the same
* A supportive and enthusiastic team that makes every workday enjoyable.
How to apply
If you feel you have the necessary skills, experience, and personality to undertake this role, please apply below.
Privacy statement
Raby Estates are gathering the data in this application for the purpose of recruitment and to ensure we can contact you regarding this application.
For information about what we do with your personal data see our Raby Privacy Policy.