Chef

Sodexo Group; Bicester; Hybrid; GBP 22,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wellbeing support

Discounts for you and your family

Retirement plan

Death-in-service benefit

Cycle to Work Scheme

Job summary

Sodexo Group at St Davids Barracks (OX26 6HF) is seeking a professional Chef to join our catering team in a Ministry of Defence environment, working alongside military personnel to prepare high-quality meals for daily service and special functions. You will follow strict food safety standards, contribute to bulk cooking, and collaborate with front-of-house staff to ensure outstanding service.

The role offers 37 hours per week, five days out of seven, with flexible shift patterns and onsite

Qualifications

• Qualified chef with catering or hospitality background.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and health regulations.
• Ability to work in a high‑pressure, team‑focused environment.
• Experience in military or government catering desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparation, cooking and service of meals in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene per EHO guidelines.
• Collaborate with front-of-house to deliver excellent service.
• Cook and serve meals to military personnel with consistency.
• Oversee kitchen sanitation and best practices.
• Support high-profile events and bulk cooking.

Skills

Professional chef experience

Food safety & hygiene

High-pressure teamwork

Passion for cooking

Education

City & Guilds 706/1 & 706/2

NVQ Level 2/3

Job description

• 37 hours per week
• 5 Days out of 7
• Flexible Shift Patterns
• £16.74 per hour
• Free parking onsite

Check your local transport links here: Plan Your Journey | Traveline

About the role:

Position: Chef at Sodexo, St Davids Barracks OX26 6HF

Join our team for a unique and rewarding catering role in a Ministry of Defence (MOD) environment, where you'll work alongside military personnel, preparing high-quality meals and supporting exciting functions. This is an opportunity to be part of something bigger, using your culinary skills to make a real impact in a fast-paced, professional setting.

What you'll do:

• Assist in the preparation, cooking, and service of meals in a fast-paced kitchen
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety and hygiene, ensuring full compliance with EHO guidelines
• Work alongside the front-of-house team to deliver outstanding service
• Cook and serve meals to military personnel, delivering high standards every day
• Oversee kitchen sanitation and ensure best practices are always followed
• Be part of high-profile events and special functions, showcasing your culinary expertise
• Take part in bulk cooking, ensuring consistency and quality in every dish

What we're looking for:

• Professional chef experience in a catering or hospitality setting
• Recognised culinary qualifications (City & Guilds 706/1 & 2, NVQ Level 2/3)
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and health regulations
• Ability to work in a high-pressure, team-focused environment
• A passion for cooking and delivering top-quality service

Desirable Skills:

• Experience working in military or government catering
• IOSH qualification or equivalent
• Knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

What we offer:

Join Sodexo for more than just a job - be part of something bigger. You'll belong, have purpose, and make an impact every day. We offer:

• Wellbeing Support - Unlimited online resources, a free health app with 24/7 virtual GP, and an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Financial Benefits - Discounts for you and your family, salary finance support, retirement plan, and a death-in-service benefit.
• Career Growth - Apprenticeships, learning tools, and development opportunities.
• Work Perks - Cycle to Work Scheme, volunteering opportunities, flexible work, full training, and a protective uniform.

Join us and thrive in your own way!