Chef - Lead with Passion, Cook with Purpose! Location: Crowthorne, Berkshire Salary: £13 - £14 Sodexo Benefits Hours: 40 hours per week Working Pattern: 5 days out of 7 Are you ready to take the lead in a kitchen where food fuels not just bodies but bright futures? As a Commis Chef interested in making Pastries for Sodexo, you'll join a luxury college and produce pastry products for high end core feeding up to (800-1000) banqueting, up to (200) afternoon teas and the fine dining restaurant. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a professional kitchen with high-quality ingredients, creating a variety of delicious pastries, desserts, and baked goods. There's good access to the Crowthorne train station nearby, on site car parking available, uniform will be provided and meals while on shift will be provided. Join Sodexo and be part of something greater. You belong in a team where you can act with purpose and thrive in your own way. What You’ll Do: Prepare and produce a range of high-quality pastries, desserts, breads, and baked goods. Ensure all pastry products meet the highest standards of taste, presentation, and consistency. Assist in menu planning and contribute creative ideas for new pastry items. Work efficiently to meet service deadlines for banqueting, afternoon tea, and fine dining. Maintain strict food hygiene and safety standards in accordance with HACCP regulations. Ensure all ingredients are stored and handled properly to maintain freshness and quality. Maintain a clean and organized workstation at all times. Work closely with the Head Chef and broader kitchen brigade to ensure smooth service operations. Support junior team members and assist in training where required. Communicate effectively with the team to ensure a coordinated and efficient workflow Monitor stock levels and assist in ordering pastry-specific ingredients. Minimize waste by following proper portioning and storage techniques. What You Bring: Previous experience in a similar Pastry role or as a Pastry Chef de Partie within a high-volume or fine-dining environment. Ability to develop and present innovative and appealing pastries that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary requirements. A passion for pastry and attention to detail Ability to work efficiently and maintain high standards under pressure A team player with a strong work ethic A meticulous approach to food preparation, hygiene, and safety standards (HACCP certification is a plus). A genuine enthusiasm for cooking and a commitment to providing high-quality dining experiences for students, staff, or visitors. Hold basic food handling certifications, including: NVQ Level 2 Level 2 Food Safety Certificate At least one year of hands-on Pastry experience What We Offer: A dynamic and supportive work environment Competitive salary and benefits Full training and protective uniform provided No unsociable hours and public holidays off—including Christmas! Unlimited access to mental health and wellbeing support Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support Discounts, cashback schemes, and financial benefits Career progression, learning opportunities, and apprenticeships Cycle to Work Scheme and volunteering opportunities At Sodexo, we believe everyone deserves a place to belong. This isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to be part of something bigger. If you’re ready to lead with passion and cook with purpose, we want to hear from you! Apply today and help us create a brighter future! Note: Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding children. All roles require pre-employment screening, including DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) and past employer checks. Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.