Assistant Head Chef: Lead High-Volume Kitchen with Tips

Maki & Ramen; Leicester; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 20,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bereavement leave

Company pension

Discounted or free food

Employee discount

Job summary

Maki & Ramen, a growing Japanese-inspired dining brand, is seeking an experienced Assistant Head Chef to support the Head Chef in a busy kitchen. This hands-on role demands ownership of service, maintaining high standards and stepping in during the Head Chef’s absence.

Based in the United Kingdom, this full-time position offers a competitive pay rate (£13.50-£14.25 per hour, with tips). Hours are negotiable and progression within a growing restaurant group is encouraged.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a Sous Chef, Assistant Head Chef or similar senior kitchen position.
• Strong cooking skills and experience working within a busy, high-volume kitchen.
• Confident supervising and motivating a kitchen team.
• Excellent organisation and time-management skills.
• Good understanding of food safety, HACCP, allergens and kitchen compliance.
• Commercial awareness, including stock control, waste and food costs.
• Reliable, adaptable and comfortable taking responsibility during demanding service periods.
• A genuine desire to develop towards a future Head Chef position.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef with day-to-day kitchen operations and lead in their absence.
• Take an active role during busy service periods, ensuring smooth service, strong communication and consistent standards.
• Maintain excellent food quality, presentation, portioning and recipe standards.
• Supervise, train and support the kitchen team, providing clear direction and effective delegation.
• Assist with stock management, ordering, waste control and kitchen cost management.
• Ensure food safety, hygiene, allergen and health & safety procedures are consistently followed.
• Work closely with the Head Chef, management and front-of-house teams to maintain an efficient service.
• Help identify and resolve operational issues during service, taking responsibility when senior leadership is required.

Skills

Cooking

Leadership

Time management

Communication

Job description

Maki & Ramen, a growing Japanese-inspired dining brand, is seeking an experienced Assistant Head Chef to support the Head Chef in a busy kitchen. This hands-on role demands ownership of service, maintaining high standards and stepping in during the Head Chef’s absence.

Based in the United Kingdom, this full-time position offers a competitive pay rate (£13.50-£14.25 per hour, with tips). Hours are negotiable and progression within a growing restaurant group is encouraged.