About the role
We're seeking an experienced Chef to lead food operations at our new artisan coffee house. This role combines food preparation expertise with kitchen management, focusing on fresh, quality ingredients and exceptional presentation. You'll be responsible for delivering consistently excellent food that complements our specialty coffee offering, managing both eat-in and takeaway service.
Key responsibilities
Food preparation & production
* Prepare and cook all menu items to specification, maintaining consistent quality and presentation
* Ensure proper food storage, rotation, and waste minimisation
* Carefully prepare gluten-free and vegetarian options with proper allergen management
Kitchen operations management
* Oversee all food service during breakfast, lunch, and all-day operations
* Manage kitchen workflow during peak service periods to ensure timely order fulfilment
* Coordinate between eat-in and takeaway orders efficiently
* Maintain organised prep schedules and mise en place systems
* Ensure kitchen equipment is properly maintained and serviced
* Monitor food temperatures and maintain cold chain requirements
* Implement portion control and maintain consistency across all dishes
* Maintain a safe working environment, including proper use of kitchen equipment and protocols for preventing slips, trips, and falls.
Stock management
* Receive ingredient deliveries
* Manage inventory levels and stock rotation systems
* Control food costs while maintaining quality standards
* Evaluate new suppliers and products for quality and value
Food safety & compliance
* Maintain food safety standards and HACCP compliance
* Conduct regular kitchen hygiene audits and temperature checks
* Ensure all food handling procedures meet regulatory requirements
* Train any future kitchen staff on food safety protocols
* Maintain accurate food safety records and documentation
* Manage allergen procedures and cross-contamination prevention
* Coordinate with environmental health inspections
Takeaway & packaging operations
* Efficiently package all menu items for takeaway service
* Maintain food quality and presentation standards for takeaway orders
* Ensure proper labelling including allergen information
* Coordinate timing of takeaway orders with front-of-house team
* Implement systems to prevent order mix-ups and delays
Financial management
* Track daily and weekly food waste and implement reduction strategies
* Monitor portion sizes to maintain cost control
* Coordinate with management on pricing strategies
* Identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality
Menu development & innovation
* Contribute ideas for seasonal menu variations and specials
* Test and develop new recipes that complement coffee offerings
* Understand food trends and customer preferences
* Suggest improvements to existing recipes and preparations
* Collaborate on future menu expansion
* Maintain recipe cards and standardised preparation methods
* Stay updated on changes to UK food safety legislation.
Future development opportunities
As the business grows, there will be scope to:
* Develop in-house baking capabilities
* Create special menu booking items / events
* Train and supervise additional kitchen staff as team grows
* Contribute to menu planning for potential second location
Essential requirements
* Proven experience as a chef in café, restaurant, or similar food service environment (minimum 2-3 years)
* Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and HACCP principles
* Ability to work efficiently during busy service periods
* Experience with breakfast/brunch cooking and egg preparation techniques
* Soup making experience and knowledge of stock preparation
* Understanding of dietary requirements and allergen management
* Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
* Physical ability to stand for long periods and work in hot kitchen environment
* Flexibility to work varied hours including weekends and early mornings
Desirable experience
* Previous café or coffee house kitchen experience
* Experience with gluten-free food preparation and cross-contamination prevention
* Baking skills and interest in developing further capabilities
* Experience managing food costs and inventory systems
Personal qualities
* Passionate about quality ingredients and artisan food preparation
* Creative approach to menu development and presentation
* Strong attention to detail and commitment to consistency
* Ability to work independently while collaborating with front-of-house team
* Adaptable and able to handle multiple orders simultaneously
* Cost-conscious with understanding of profit margins
* Interest in food trends and continuous learning
* Community-minded with appreciation for local suppliers
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £26,000.00-£29,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Employee discount
* Store discount
Work Location: In person