College Junior Sous Chef- Cambridge

Job Title: Junior Sous Chef
Establishment: University
Salary: From £34,128 P/A plus pension and benefits
Location: Cambridge
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week, including evenings and weekends

About the Role

Our client is seeking a talented and enthusiastic Junior Sous Chef to join its busy, professional, and friendly kitchen team. Reporting directly to the Executive Head Chef, you will play a vital role in delivering exceptional culinary experiences for Fellows, students, staff, and guests.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced chef with a background in similar fine dining or high-end catering environments. If you are passionate about food, have a creative flair, and a commitment to excellence, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

Under the direction of the Executive Head Chef, your duties will include:

• Overseeing the preparation, cooking, and presentation of food across all kitchen areas.
• Collaborating with the Executive Head Chef, Deputy Head Chef, and Senior Sous Chef to contribute to menu development and introduce innovative dishes.
• Ensuring compliance with high standards of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen working practices in line with current regulations.
• Taking responsibility for kitchen operations in the absence of senior chefs.
• Assisting kitchen administrators with food ordering, ensuring minimal wastage and efficient stock control.
• Liaising with suppliers and overseeing the receipt, storage, and rotation of provisions to maintain freshness and comply with hygiene standards.

About You

We are looking for an accomplished Junior Sous Chef who is passionate about their craft and dedicated to continuous professional growth.

Experience and Qualifications:

• NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent experience).
• Proven track record of delivering high standards in a fine dining or similar environment.
• Comprehensive understanding of food safety and hygiene practices.

Skills and Attributes:

• Strong culinary knowledge and creativity.
• Excellent leadership, time management, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a brigade and lead effectively when required.
• Passion for learning and innovation.

Benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, they offer a generous benefits package, including:

• 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time roles).
• An additional day’s holiday every two years, up to a maximum of 30 days.
• Defined contribution pension scheme.
• Meal on duty (daily allowance).
• Uniform provided.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Medicash health plan (after three months of employment).
• Annual bonus scheme (subject to end-of-year financial results).
• Recruitment incentive (1.5% of the starting salary of your referral).
• Social activities, including end-of-year celebrations, garden parties, and away days.
• Long Service Awards for 10 to 40 years of service.