Important: Please only apply if you have a genuine passion for food and want to become a chef. This role is for someone eager to learn how a professional kitchen works and build a career in cooking — not for someone simply looking for a job.
Copdock Hall is a busy wedding and events venue in Copdock, and we are looking for a Kitchen Assistant / Trainee Commis Chef to join our team. This role is ideal for someone at the start of their culinary career – particularly a school leaver with a real interest in cooking.
You will begin in a general kitchen assistant role, learning the fundamentals of working in a professional kitchen. For the right candidate who demonstrates a strong work ethic, reliability and passion for food, there will be an opportunity to progress into a permanent Commis Chef position from early May.
This role offers hands-on experience in a fast-paced events kitchen and the chance to develop under experienced chefs.
The Role
You will initially join the team as a General Kitchen Assistant, supporting the chefs and helping the kitchen run smoothly during both preparation days and busy events.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Assisting with basic food preparation and kitchen prep
- Supporting chefs with ingredient preparation and kitchen organisation
- Acting as pot wash during events and busy service periods
- Maintaining cleanliness and organisation across the kitchen
- Helping with stock organisation and deliveries
- Learning kitchen systems, food safety standards and preparation techniques
- Supporting the kitchen team during large wedding and event services
As you gain experience and demonstrate the right attitude, you will begin learning more chef-focused skills, with the aim of progressing into a Commis Chef role.
Progression Opportunity
For candidates who demonstrate:
- A strong work ethic
- Reliability and flexibility
- A genuine passion for food
- A willingness to learn
There will be an opportunity to move into a permanent Commis Chef position from early May, where you will take on more responsibility for food preparation and cooking.
Working Hours
Due to the nature of weddings and events, flexibility is essential.
- Shifts may start as early as 7am
- Shifts may finish as late as midnight
- Regular weekend work is required
This role suits someone who understands the realities of working in hospitality and is happy working around event schedules.
What We Are Looking For
- A genuine passion for food and cooking
- Someone who wants to learn how to become a chef
- A strong work ethic and positive attitude
- Willingness to start with the fundamentals and learn the ropes properly
- Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment
- Reliability and punctuality
- Full flexibility with working hours, including weekends
Previous kitchen experience is helpful but not essential – the right attitude and enthusiasm are far more important.
Why Join Copdock Hall?
This is a great opportunity to start your culinary career in a professional events kitchen, learning from experienced chefs and working in a busy wedding and events venue.
If you are passionate about food and serious about building a career as a chef, we would love to hear from you.
Pay: £13.41 per hour
Work Location: In person
