Job Ref: BES7361
Branch: Caledonian Hotel Ullapool
Location: Caledonian Hotel Ullapool, Ullapool
Salary/Benefits: Competitive Salary
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Shift pattern: Various
Hours per week: 40
Posted date: 11/07/2026
Closing date: 10/08/2026
Location: Scottish Highlands
Department: Kitchen / Food Beverage
Reports To: Head Chef / Sous Chef
As a Commis Chef in our Highland Hotel, you will support the kitchen team in delivering high-quality dishes across breakfast, lunch, and dinner service. You will assist in food preparation, maintain kitchen hygiene standards, and contribute to a smooth and efficient kitchen operation in a fast-paced hospitality environment.
- Assist in the preparation and cooking of dishes under the direction of senior chefs.
- Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency.
- Ensure compliance with food hygiene, health, and safety regulations (HACCP).
- Maintain cleanliness and organisation of workstations at all times.
- Support stock rotation (FIFO), storage, and inventory control procedures.
- Work collaboratively with the kitchen brigade to ensure efficient service.
- Report equipment faults, shortages, or issues promptly.
- Prepare and cook breakfast items such as eggs, bacon, sausages, pastries, cereals, and continental offerings.
- Set up and maintain breakfast buffet or service station.
- Ensure timely replenishment of food items and maintain presentation standards.
- Accommodate guest dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free).
- Assist with early morning kitchen preparation and mise en place for later services.
- Assist in preparing light meals, sandwiches, soups, salads, and daily specials.
- Support service for bar meals, café offerings, or restaurant lunch menus.
- Ensure quick turnaround and efficient service during busy periods.
- Maintain portion control and consistency in plating.
- Contribute to prep work for dinner service where required.
- Assist in the preparation and execution of dinner service, including starters, mains, and desserts.
- Follow recipes and plating specifications set by senior chefs.
- Work on assigned sections (e.g., starters, garnish, pastry) under supervision.
- Ensure smooth coordination with the team during peak dinner service.
- Help with kitchen close-down, cleaning, and preparation for the next day.
- Previous experience in a kitchen environment (preferred but not essential).
- Basic knowledge of food preparation and cooking techniques.
- Understanding of food hygiene and safety standards.
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills.
- Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Passion for food and hospitality.
- Willingness to learn and develop culinary skills.
- Positive attitude and strong work ethic.
- Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Reliable and punctual.
- Shift-based role including early mornings, split shifts, evenings, and weekends.
- Standing for extended periods and working in a hot kitchen environment.
- Opportunities for training and career progression within the hotel.
About Us
Built in the early 1900s, the 83-bedroom Caledonian Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in the area. It still boasts a quiet, friendly and welcoming atmosphere and pleasant gardens.
The Hotel overlooks Ullapool's working harbour and the colourful fishing boats on Loch Broom. To the right of the hotel is the Fowler Memorial Clock - said to be the most photographed clock in the Highlands. It was first erected in 1899 in memory of Sir John Arthur Fowler (1817-1898) and his family who lived at Braemore House near Corrieshalloch Gorge. However, to help reduce traffic congestion, it was moved to its new home in West Argyle Street in the 1960s.
Thanks to its central location in the town of Ullapool and modern comforts, The Caledonian Hotel is perfect for both the business and leisure traveller.
Ullapool is the main port of the Outer Hebrides and offers good road links to various spectacular highland locations, including Loch Maree, Lochinver, Gairloch, Corrieshalloch Gorge and Inverewe Gardens, where visitors can enjoy the many tropical and exotic shrubs and trees that grow there.
The capital of the Highlands, Inverness is under two hours away, providing ample opportunity for shopping trips.
We truly believe our people are our biggest asset and to reflect that we offer:
- Market leading Rates of Pay
- Anniversary Bonus
- Flexible Shifts, full and part time to fit around other commitments
- 28 Days paid Holiday (pro rata) rising annually to a maximum 33 Days per year
- Full Training and Supervision Given
- Opportunity to gain recognised qualifications to help you progress
- Subsidised Accommodation Available includes WiFi, Food, Energy Bills, Rates and Licences
- Introduce a Friend Scheme worth £600 +
- Anniversary weekend stay for you or to give as a gift to family or close friends
- Access to complimentary Mental Health Wellbeing services
- Discounted Bespoke Hotel Stays, for you, your family and friends
- 50% off all Food Beverage during Bespoke Hotel Stays
- A range of local in-house benefits
- many more!
