Overview
Second Chef/Deputy Head Chef - Halls of Residence. Based at University Park, part of the University of Nottingham. Salary: £24,727 to £27,720 per annum pro-rata (£13.12 - £14.71 per hour). Posts will initially be offered at the minimum salary point with progression to the higher salary point through an annual incremental pay rise. Closing Date: Open Until Filled. Reference: NHE233325.
The University of Nottingham has been providing an outstanding student experience for over 140 years. Our award-winning Nottingham campus is close to the city centre and well connected by public transport.
Responsibilities
* Prepare and serve consistent, high-quality meals for resident students during term time.
* Cater for events, conferences, and weddings (up to 350 guests) during vacation periods.
* Step up in the Head Chef’s absence to lead the team and ensure smooth operations.
* Be involved in everything from formal banquets to lively student dining.
This is a hands-on role that requires leadership, creativity and a genuine love for food.
What’s in it for you?
* Great work-life balance with sociable hours compared to many hospitality roles.
* Permanent, year-round contract with one of the UK’s top universities.
* Career development with structured training, support, and industry-recognised qualifications.
* Generous holiday allowance – 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays and additional university closure days.
* Excellent staff benefits – Employee Assistance Programme, supplier discounts, travel schemes, and access to sports facilities.
* Supportive environment with a professional, friendly team and regular staff events.
* Tools and perks – uniform provided and everything you need to do your job well.
Requirements
* Qualified to 706 1/2 or NVQ 1/2 in Food Production, or relevant kitchen experience.
* Confident chef with excellent cooking skills and supervisory experience.
* Familiar with stock management and Microsoft Office.
* Strong team player with attention to detail and a genuine passion for food.
Working hours
* 36.25 hours per week, over 5 days out of 7 (mainly 11.15am–7.30pm), including regular weekends.
* Occasional early shifts (6.00am–2.15pm) or late finishes (up to 10.00pm) during special events.
* Flexibility is required; job share arrangements may be considered.
Recruitment process
The interview includes a short interview and a practical skills test (around 2 hours). Full details will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
Equality, diversity and inclusion: Our university is a supportive, inclusive, caring and positive community. We welcome those of different cultures, ethnicities and beliefs – this diversity is vital to our success. We are Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and have Athena Swan Gold Award. We publish guidance to support applications and interview processes. We encourage applications from UK, Europe and worldwide and support relocation where possible. This position does not fulfill UK Visas & Immigration sponsorship criteria for Skilled Worker, therefore we can only accept applications from candidates who already have the right to work in the UK.
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