Cook – Café at Willow Tree Family Farm
Date posted: 10/09/2025
Pay: £13.00 per hour
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced and talented Cook to join our busy café team at Willow Tree Family Farm, a popular children's farm park and events venue. This is a hands-on role in a high-demand catering environment, where you'll take responsibility for preparing and serving fresh, high-quality food while ensuring excellent customer service standards are maintained.
You will play a key role not only in cooking and service but also in managing stock, ordering supplies, controlling costs, and contributing ideas to maximise profitability.
Working Hours
* Standard daytime shifts: 9:00am – 4:30pm
* Early shifts: 8:00am
* Occasional evening shifts for events: 2:00pm – 10:00pm events weddings
* Weekend and weekday availability required (rotas issued at least 2 weeks in advance).
Key Responsibilities
* Prepare, cook, and present a variety of freshly made meals, snacks, and beverages to a high standard.
* Provide excellent customer service at the café counter, including till operation and order taking.
* Plan menus that are nutritious, appealing, and cost-effective, reflecting visitor preferences and seasonal produce.
* Monitor food costs, control wastage, and ensure profitability.
* Place orders with suppliers, manage deliveries, and maintain accurate stock control.
* Uphold the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness in line with Food Safety and Environmental Health regulations.
* Ensure all equipment is maintained in good working order, reporting defects promptly.
* Accurately complete and maintain HACCP documentation and temperature checks.
* Support the farm team during events, busy periods, and special catering requirements.
* Work collaboratively with management and trustees to develop and improve the café offer.
What We're Looking For
* Proven experience in a commercial kitchen, café, or catering environment.
* Strong cooking skills with the ability to work under pressure during busy service times.
* Knowledge of food safety, stock management, and cost control.
* Ability to create menus that balance quality, nutrition, and profit.
* Confident in customer service, till operation, and working front-of-house when required.
* Organised, reliable, and able to work independently as well as part of a team.
* Flexible with working hours, including weekends and occasional evenings.
Qualifications & Requirements
* Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 minimum) – Level 3 desirable.
* NVQ Level 2/3 in Food Preparation & Catering (or equivalent experience).
* First Aid certification (or willingness to train).
* Strong knowledge of cleaning procedures and food safety regulations.
* Commitment to equality, diversity, and continuous learning.
Benefits
* Competitive pay (£13 per hour)
* Casual dress
* Company events
* Company pension
* Discounted or free meals
* Employee discount
* Free on-site parking
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From £13.00 per hour
Expected hours: 24 – 45 per week
Benefits:
* Company events
* Discounted or free food
* Employee discount
* Free parking
Work Location: In person