Commis Chef

Job description

We are seeking a talented Commis Chef for one of Cambridge’s top Colleges. The role involves assisting in the production of food, maintaining high standards in food safety and hygiene, and supporting the overall efficiency of the kitchen and food service operations. If you have a passion for food preparation, excellent attention to detail, and a proactive approach to working in a dynamic kitchen environment, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

Overall Purpose of the Role:
The successful candidate will support the Head Chef, Sous Chef, and Chef de Partie in preparing and serving food to a professional standard, while ensuring compliance with food safety and allergen guidelines. You will contribute to the smooth and efficient operation of the catering department, ensuring high standards are maintained at all times.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

Food Preparation:

• Assist in food preparation across the main kitchen and café as required, ensuring all meals meet the daily requirements.
• Stay informed about daily menus and upcoming events to ensure readiness and consistency in food preparation.
• Prepare ingredients and dishes professionally, adhering to allergen regulations and minimizing food wastage.
• Assist with food transportation to various areas within the College when required.
• Ensure that unused or returned food is appropriately refrigerated, labelled, and dated before finishing the shift.
• At the beginning and end of your shift, ensure the section is set according to cleaning schedules, and all equipment is turned off following kitchen closedown procedures.
• Maintain storage areas, ensuring unused items are stored correctly, properly sealed, dated, and labelled.

Health & Safety / Food Hygiene:

• Comply with statutory regulations, including Health & Safety, Food Safety Management, and Allergen policies.
• Take responsibility for your own health & safety and that of your colleagues and visitors, adhering to fire safety and COSHH regulations.
• Ensure that all food storage areas are clean, tidy, and comply with the College’s allergen policy.
• Complete daily hygiene and allergen checklists as per departmental procedures.
• Use kitchen equipment safely, reporting any faults or maintenance issues to the Executive Head Chef or Sous Chef.
• Maintain a professional appearance and ensure your uniform is clean and presentable at all times, following the College’s uniform policy.

General Responsibilities:

• Ensure a smooth handover of your section to the next shift, passing on any relevant information.
• Uphold confidentiality at all times and ensure no information is disclosed that could compromise the privacy or safety of students, staff, or clients.
• Assist colleagues across the catering department and contribute to the overall smooth running of the College.
• Take on any additional tasks as directed by the Catering Management Team or College Officers.

Training and Development:

• As part of our commitment to staff development, the successful candidate will receive relevant training to perform the role safely and effectively. Opportunities for further training and development will be discussed as part of your growth within the department.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Previous experience in a commercial kitchen environment, preferably in independent or boutique establishments, with a focus on preparing dishes from scratch.
• Strong understanding of basic food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen hygiene practices.
• Proven ability to manage food safety, allergens, and comply with industry standards.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Ability to follow instructions from senior chefs and work as part of a team.
• Proficient in verbal, written, and numerical communication.
• A proactive, problem-solving approach to kitchen operations.
• A passion for delivering outstanding dishes and customer service.
• Familiarity with COSHH and HACCP practices.
• Strong team player, with the ability to work independently as required.

Desirable:

• Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
• NVQ Level 1 or 2 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent).
• Previous experience working in a busy academic kitchen environment.
• Good command of spoken and written English.
• Competent computer skills.

Working Hours:

• 37.5 hours per week on a shift system, including evenings and weekends.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £28,979.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Gym membership

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Night shift
• Overtime
• Weekend availability

Work Location: In person