DEPARTMENT/SCHOOL: Estates JOB TITLE: Chef SALARY & HOURS: Band 2, £25,290.00 per annum, 35 hours per week 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 Informal enquiries may be made. Closing date: 13/02/2026 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/