Job Ref: UNI1495
Branch: Parker's Tavern
Location: Parker's Tavern, Cambridge
Salary/Benefits: Competitive Pay
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Hours per week: 42.5
Posted date: 22/05/2026
Closing date: 24/06/2026
ABOUT US
University Arms is a 192-bedroom design-led Hotel situated in the heart of Cambridge, United Kingdom. Overlooking Parker’s Piece is the Hotel’s quintessentially British Restaurant and Bar Parker’s Tavern, Library Lounge, and beautiful 272 square metre wood panelled Ballroom.
Opened in 1834 as a Coaching Inn, University Arms is Cambridge’s oldest Hotel. For 180 years, the Hotel was added to, updated, and modernised in line with the age; however, it was the reopening in 2018 after a four-year £80m full renovation that really positioned the Hotel. It is now Cambridge's 'go to’ destination, alluring visitors with the promise of a sense of modern luxury.
WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING
As a Junior Sous Chef, you will support the kitchen leadership team in delivering exceptional culinary experiences. You’ll help oversee daily kitchen operations, lead sections during service, maintain high standards of food quality and presentation, and mentor junior team members. This is a key development role for an ambitious chef looking to grow into senior leadership.
THE DUTIES
- Assist the Sous Chef, Executive Sous Chef and Head Chef in managing day-to-day kitchen operations.
- Lead and supervise a section, ensuring all dishes are prepared to the highest standard.
- Support with menu development, recipe testing, and creative seasonal ideas.
- Maintain strict food safety, hygiene, and allergen control procedures.
- Train, guide, and mentor Commis and Chef de Partie team members.
- Help manage stock control, ordering, and minimise food waste.
- Ensure efficient communication between kitchen and front-of-house teams.
- Step up to cover Sous Chef duties when required.
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN YOU
- Previous experience as a Chef de Partie or Junior Sous Chef in a quality kitchen.
- Strong cooking skills with excellent attention to detail and consistency.
- Ability to lead a section confidently and manage service pressure.
- Knowledge of modern and classical culinary techniques.
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
- Passionate, driven, and committed to continuous improvement.
- Flexible to work varied shifts, including weekends and evenings
THE PERKS
As well as the opportunity to work with a fantastic team in an exceptional property, the position comes with:
- Competitive salary
- Free meals on duty
- Team Member Parties
- Room and FB discounts across the Marriott portfolio
- Refer a friend – who do you know who could be interested in a new role? When they are placed, you could earn up to £400 for referring them!
RIGHT TO WORK
In line with the requirements of UK immigration legislation, all applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK. Documentary evidence of eligibility to work will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.
PAY
£31,326.88 plus £5,746 in Tronc
Why work at University Arms and Parker’s Tavern?
We are passionate about Cambridge’s heritage, and want to share that with our guests in a context that is contemporary, thoughtful and engaging. We deliver an experience of considered modern luxury, and take pride in our work. If you are enthusiastic about your city and your work in the hospitality sector you will find working at the University Arms truly rewarding.
