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Commis Chef - Stewarts Christchurch

We're looking for a hardworking and enthusiastic Commis Chef to join the kitchen team at our Stewarts Christchurch Coffee Shop.

You’ll support the Head Chef and wider kitchen team in preparing and presenting a range of fresh, homemade dishes, helping us deliver the high standards of food and service our customers expect.

You’ll work with fresh and locally sourced ingredients and have the opportunity to develop your skills across both our kitchen and bakery sections.

This is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about food and looking to build their experience in a busy, supportive kitchen environment. Whether you’re starting out in your culinary career or looking to take the next step, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from an experienced team and develop your skills along the way.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist the Head Chef and kitchen team with the day-to-day preparation and cooking of food.
  • Prepare fresh ingredients and assist with the production of a variety of menu items.
  • Help ensure food is prepared, cooked and presented to a consistently high standard.
  • Support the bakery team with the preparation and production of baked goods when required.
  • Follow recipes and portion-control guidelines to maintain consistency.
  • Maintain a clean, tidy and well-organised kitchen, including workstations, equipment and utensils.
  • Follow all food safety, hygiene and health and safety procedures.
  • Store food correctly and help monitor stock levels and food quality.
  • Work efficiently during busy service periods to ensure food is prepared and served on time.
  • Work as part of the wider Coffee Shop team to provide a friendly and enjoyable experience for our customers.
  • Carry out other reasonable kitchen duties as required.

What You'll Need:

  • Previous experience working in a kitchen environment is desirable.
  • Bakery or pastry experience would be an advantage but isn't essential.
  • A genuine passion for food and an interest in developing your culinary skills.
  • An understanding of food safety and hygiene standards.
  • The ability to work calmly and efficiently in a busy environment.
  • Good organisation skills and attention to detail.
  • A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well as part of a team.
  • The flexibility to support different areas of the kitchen when required.

What Makes Someone Successful In This Role?

The successful candidate will be enthusiastic, reliable and keen to learn. You’ll take pride in the food you prepare and understand that the small details can make a big difference to our customers' experience.

You’ll be someone who enjoys being part of a team, is happy to get stuck in and can keep a positive attitude when the kitchen gets busy. You won’t be afraid to ask questions, learn new skills and take feedback on board.

Most importantly, you’ll have a genuine interest in food and a desire to grow your skills and develop within the kitchen team.

What's It Like Working At Stewarts?

  • Supportive, close-knit team.
  • A family-run business with strong values and heritage.
  • An opportunity to make a real impact on both the customer journey and the success of the centre.
  • Be part of a business that values personal development and supports its people to grow and succeed.

Benefits:

  • Generous staff discount in garden centres and coffee shops.
  • Free on-site parking.
  • Additional day off to celebrate your birthday!
  • Opportunities to attend seasonal events.

The Practical Details:

Contract Type: Permanent – 32 hours per week

Location: Stewarts Christchurch Garden Centre, Lyndhurst Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 4SA

Reports to: Head Chef

Salary: £12.85 per hour

Work Pattern: The successful candidate will work 7:30am-4:00pm across a two week rota;

Week 1: Monday, Thursday and Friday

Week 2: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday

How to Apply:

If you have a passion for food and delivering great customer service we'd love to hear from you!

To apply, please send a copy of your CV and a covering letter to:

HR Department, D Stewart & Son Ltd, 8 Christchurch Business Park, Radar Way, Christchurch BH23 4FL

Or e-mail: [email protected]

Please Note: CVs that do not have an accompanying cover letter will not be considered.