Come and cook with us in the Staffordshire Moorlands
Tucked away on the edge of the Staffordshire Moorlands with views out towards the Roaches, Jacksons Nurseries Tea Room is a much-loved spot for food lovers, walkers, garden enthusiasts and families from across the area. We’ve built a strong reputation for delicious home-cooked food, freshly baked cakes and warm, personal service. Whether our guests are toasting by the open fire in winter or soaking up the sunshine on our terrace in summer, we want every visit to feel special.
Our kitchen team takes genuine pride in cooking from scratch using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From hearty soups and traditional pies to seasonal salads, gourmet sandwiches, full English breakfasts and a proper Sunday roast, there’s real care behind every plate – and we’re now looking for a Commis Chef / Kitchen Assistant to come and grow with us.
About the role
This is a hands-on role for someone who loves food and being part of a busy, friendly kitchen. You’ll work closely with the senior team, learning the craft of a kitchen that produces everything in-house, and helping us deliver the high standards our guests come back for time and time again. You’ll get a real grounding in the trade – from prepping fresh ingredients to plating up over a busy lunch service – with the variety to develop quickly across breakfast, lunch, Sunday roasts and our specials menu.
What you’ll be doing
- Assist in food preparation, including chopping, peeling and basic cooking tasks such as sandwiches and paninis
- Support the culinary team in preparing ingredients for various dishes
- Maintain cleanliness and organisation of the kitchen area, including washing utensils and equipment
- Follow food safety, allergen awareness and hygiene standards at all times
- Help with meal assembly and presentation under supervision
- Assist with stock rotation, deliveries and inventory checks
- Support front of house during busy periods, ensuring timely delivery of orders
- Pitch in to clear tables, replenish wares and help with cleaning or basic prep wherever the team needs a hand
- Contribute to a positive team environment by working collaboratively with colleagues
In short: you’ll be a real team player – happy to roll up your sleeves and help wherever the kitchen needs you on the day.
About you
- A genuine interest in food and a willingness to learn from senior chefs
- Calm under pressure, with the ability to work at speed in a busy kitchen
- Reliable, punctual and a strong team player
- Good attention to detail and pride in your work
- Generally fit and able to be on your feet throughout service
- Some prior kitchen experience is helpful but not essential – attitude and willingness to learn matter most
The practical bits
- Pay: £12.71 per hour, plus tips paid pro-rata regardless of role
- Hours: Up to 5 days per week, 8:00am to 4:30pm (40 hours per week if full time); part-time applicants also considered
- Weekends: Weekend availability is essential
- Contract: Permanent
- Transport: Due to our rural location, you’ll need your own transport
- Tips: Gratuities are paid on a pro-rata basis regardless of your role
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent
Pay: From £12.71 per hour
Expected hours: 24.0 – 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Store discount
Work Location: In person
