Chef

LJ Recruitment; Colchester; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

LJ Recruitment is seeking a reliable Chef to manage an onsite workplace canteen in Colchester. You will cook nutritious meals for up to 75 people, plan menus, and control stock in a single-person kitchen.

The role requires proven catering or kitchen management experience, a Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate, and a full UK driving licence. Salary is £16.00 per hour, 40 hours per week, around £33,280 pa.

Qualifications

• Proven catering/kitchen management experience.
• Level 3 Food Hygiene Certification is essential.
• Full UK driving licence required for site location.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operation of the workplace canteen.
• Prepare and serve nutritious meals for up to 75 employees daily.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene and service.
• Plan menus to provide variety and minimise waste.
• Manage stock levels and budgeting for the kitchen.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and health regulations.
• Run the kitchen independently in a one-person setup.

Skills

Food safety

Customer service

Menu planning

Stock control

Communication

Education

Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

Chef

£16.00 ph / 40 hr pw / £33,280 PA

We are looking for a reliable and talented chef to manage an onsite workplace canteen, catering for up to 75 people per day. This is a one‑person kitchen where you will be responsible for preparing high-quality, nutritious meals for employees.

The successful candidate will have proven experience as a Chef, Kitchen Manager or Canteen Manager and hold a current Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate.

Core Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operation of the workplace canteen, including food preparation, menu planning, stock control and budgeting.
• Prepare and serve high-quality, nutritious meals in a professional and efficient manner.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene and customer service.
• Plan menus that provide variety while minimising food waste.
• Order food and kitchen supplies, ensuring appropriate stock levels are maintained.
• Ensure all food safety, hygiene and health and safety regulations are followed at all times.
• Manage the kitchen independently and maintain a clean, organised working environment.

Essential Requirements

• Proven experience in a similar catering, canteen or kitchen management role.
• Current Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Full UK driving licence (required due to the location of the site).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as this is a customer-facing role involving employees, visitors and suppliers.
• Ability to work independently and effectively manage a one‑person kitchen.