Sous Chef – Hotel
Bracknell, Berkshire
£40,000 Base + Paid Overtime
40-Hour Contract | Live-In Available
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About the Role
An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Sous Chef to join a well-established, family-run country hotel set within the Berkshire countryside.
This is a key position within a busy, well-structured kitchen, supporting a 70-cover restaurant alongside a strong weddings and events business, including private dining pods and seasonal outdoor dining.
The role offers the rare combination of Sous Chef responsibility with a realistic 40-hour contract and paid overtime, making it a genuinely balanced and sustainable position.
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The Role
Working closely with the Head Chef, you will play a central role in the day-to-day running of the kitchen, helping to maintain standards while supporting a small, collaborative brigade.
You will:
* Support the Head Chef in running daily kitchen operations
* Lead service confidently and step up in the Head Chef’s absence
* Oversee prep, organisation and consistency across all sections
* Support both restaurant and banqueting service delivery
* Assist with menu development, seasonal changes and event menus
* Manage stock control, ordering and kitchen organisation
* Train and mentor junior chefs within the team
This is a hands-on role, ideal for a Sous Chef who enjoys being on the tools while leading from the front.
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The Kitchen
* 70-cover restaurant plus weddings and events
* Private dining pods and outdoor seasonal service
* Fresh, seasonal food with flexibility and input encouraged
* Family-run, supportive environment
* Strong focus on consistency, organisation and guest experience
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Shifts
* 40-hour contract
* Mix of early, mid and late shifts:
o Early: 6:45am – 3:00pm
o Mid: 12:00pm – 9:00pm
o Late: 2:00pm – 10:00pm
* Paid overtime for any additional hours
* Flexibility required during peak periods and events
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The Ideal Candidate
* Current Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous ready to step up
* Experience within hotel or fresh-food kitchen environments
* Confident leading service and supporting a brigade
* Organised, reliable and calm under pressure
* Strong understanding of kitchen operations and food safety
* Positive attitude and team-focused approach
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The Package
* £40,000 base salary
* Paid overtime at hourly rate (~£19.23 per hour)
* 28 days holiday (increasing with service)
* Staff discounts across the hotel
* Training and development opportunities
* Employer pension
* Uniform provided
* Free on-site parking
Live-In Accommodation Available:
Private bedroom within shared off-site cottage accommodation, including utilities and Wi-Fi (low weekly cost)
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Why This Role
This is a standout Sous Chef opportunity offering:
* Strong salary at 40 hours
* Paid overtime (rare at this level)
* Live-in accommodation
* A supportive, family-run environment
* Genuine work–life balance
If you’re looking for a Sous Chef role that combines responsibility, stability and a more sustainable way of working, this is an excellent opportunity.