Chef

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading animal conservation charity in Kent is seeking a talented chef to join their kitchen team. This full-time position offers a unique working environment, preparing exceptional meals while maintaining high standards. Candidates should have at least two years of experience in the culinary field and must be eligible to work in the UK. A starting salary from £29,120 per annum is offered along with a range of benefits.

Benefits

28 days of paid holiday annually

Unique and inspiring working environment

Uniform and knives supplied

Wellbeing programme

Company events & staff discounts

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience in a well-established restaurant or full-service hotel.
• Must hold a valid driver’s licence and have access to a vehicle.
• Applicants must have the right to live and work in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver exceptional breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
• Accurately estimate daily production needs and check the quality of food.
• Maintain hygiene and safety standards.

Skills

Strong culinary skills

Ability to work under pressure

Flair for creating innovative dishes

Job description

The Big Cat Sanctuary

Kent Closing date for applications is: 17th Aug 2025

Experienced Chef Wanted (Full-Time, Permanent Position)

The Big Cat Sanctuary (BCS) is a leading charity-based organisation dedicated to protecting rare and endangered cats through education, conservation, and captive breeding programmes. Nestled in the picturesque Kent countryside, BCS offers a truly unique working environment.

We are now seeking a talented and passionate chef to join our established kitchen team, either at Chef de Partie or Commis Chef level.

As a BCS Chef, you will assist the Head Chef in running a busy kitchen, consistently delivering high-quality dishes that reflect innovation and freshness. You’ll play a vital role in maintaining the high standards of BCS’s culinary offerings, often working independently while supporting and inspiring the rest of the kitchen team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and deliver exceptional breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, ensuring all food meets the highest quality standards
• Accurately estimate daily production needs and check the quality of raw and cooked food
• Ensure food preparation, production, and presentation exceed guest expectations
• Maintain a thorough understanding of food preparation, storage, and sanitation procedures, ensuring full team compliance
• Stay updated on menu items, recipes, and presentation standards, contributing to menu planning and development with the Head Chef
• Maintain hygiene and safety standards, ensuring proper use of kitchen equipment and utensils
• Liaise regularly with the Head Chef regarding schedules, functions, and any last-minute requirements

Requirements:

• Experience: At least 2 years of experience in a well-established restaurant or full-service hotel
• Skills: Strong culinary skills, ability to work under pressure, and a flair for creating innovative dishes
• Flexibility: Willingness to work weekends, evenings, and occasional overtime
• Transportation: Must hold a valid driver’s licence and have access to a vehicle, as BCS is not accessible by public transport
• Eligibility: Applicants must have the right to live and work in the UK

Details:

• Hours: Full-time, permanent, 40 hours per week (5 days over 7, worked between 07:00 and 22:00, straight shifts only)
• Guests: Typically catering for 16 guests for breakfast and dinner (pre-ordered) and up to 30 for lunch
• Salary: Starting from £29,120 per annum, depending on skills and experience
• Benefits include:
  • 28 days of paid holiday annually, plus Christmas Day off as standard
  • Unique and inspiring working environment
  • Uniform and knives supplied
  • Wellbeing programme
  • Company events & staff discounts

Apply for this job:

If you are passionate about food and want to work in an environment like no other, we’d love to hear from you!

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter to [e-mail]

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BIAZA, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY

BIAZA's office hours are 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Contact outside of those times will get a response when we are next in the office.

If your enquiry is urgent and you need a response before the BIAZA office reopens, please call Jo Judge on 07593 580602. If you wish to reach one of our members, please contact them directly.

The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales number 6789783.Registered Office Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY. Registered Charity Number is 1128168 and SC040783 (Scotland)