Assistant Chef/Cook — Busy Pub Kitchen & Cafe Bistro
Overview
We’re looking for an experienced, hands-on Assistant Chef/Cook to join our fast-paced pub kitchen and cafe bistro. You’ll support the Head Chef day-to-day and take full responsibility for the kitchen in their absence, maintaining high standards of food quality, consistency, hygiene, and team leadership.
Reports To
Head Chef
Role Purpose
- Support delivery of a fresh, seasonal menu for both pub and cafe service.
- Lead the kitchen pass, coordinate service, and manage the team when the Head Chef is off-shift or on leave.
- Uphold food safety, allergen control, cost targets, and brand standards at all times.
Key Responsibilities
- Food Preparation and Service
- Prepare, cook, and present dishes to spec across breakfast, lunch, and dinner services.
- Run the pass, maintain ticket flow, and ensure timely service during peak periods.
- Support menu development, daily specials, and recipe testing with clear spec sheets.
- Standards and Compliance
- Maintain strict food hygiene and kitchen cleanliness (HACCP, COSHH, EHO-ready).
- Ensure accurate allergen, dietary, and intolerance management and communication.
- Conduct daily opening/closing checks, temperature logs, cleaning schedules, and deliveries checks.
- Leadership and People
- Supervise and train kitchen team members; delegate sections effectively.
- Set the pace, coach on standards, and foster a positive, safe working environment.
- Manage rota coverage in the Head Chef’s absence; coordinate with FOH for smooth service.
- Kitchen Management
- Support stock control: ordering, rotation (FIFO), waste tracking, and stock takes.
- Help manage gross profit targets, portions, yield, and reduce waste.
- Liaise with suppliers; ensure quality and availability of core lines.
- Cross-Function Collaboration
- Work closely with Front of House to align service timing and guest experience.
- Adapt to dual offer (pub classics and cafe bistro items), events, and private bookings.
Requirements
- Experience in a high-volume kitchen; confident running service and a section.
- Solid knowledge of food safety, allergens, and HACCP procedures.
- Ability to step up and lead the team in the Head Chef’s absence.
- Strong organisation, communication, and calm under pressure.
- Flexibility to work mornings, evenings, weekends, bank holidays.
- Right to work documentation and references.
Desirable
- NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent in Professional Cookery.
- First Aid, Food Hygiene Level 2/3, and allergen training certificates.
- Experience across breakfast/brunch service and pub/bistro menus.
- Knowledge of GP, menu engineering, and stock systems.
What We Offer
- Competitive pay with share of tips/service charge.
- Staff meals on shift and staff discounts.
- Training, development, and progression opportunities.
- A supportive team culture in a growing, quality-focused business.
Working Pattern
- Full-time, rota-based. Mix of early cafe shifts and late pub service.
- Expected to be keyholder and duty kitchen lead when scheduled.
How to Apply
Send your CV and a brief cover note outlining your relevant experience and availability. Include any current certifications. Interviews and trial shifts will be arranged for shortlisted candidates.
Pay: £14.00-£16.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Application question(s):
- Do you hold relevant catering qualifications - Haccp, Food hygiene, Allergens
Experience:
- Catering management: 2 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person
