Chef

Raby Estates; North East; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A family-run estate in North East England is seeking a passionate Chef to join their culinary team. This role involves preparing menu items, ensuring top quality service, and collaborating with the kitchen team. Ideal candidates should possess relevant culinary qualifications and experience in a commercial kitchen. The position offers a range of attractive benefits, including a competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

33 days holiday including statutory holidays

Group Pension Scheme

Health Cash Plan

Employee Assistance Program

Discounts at Raby retail and food outlets

Complimentary access to Raby Castle and High Force leisure attractions

Qualifications

• Relevant culinary qualifications such as NVQ Level 2 minimum showcasing foundational knowledge and skills.
• Experience in a commercial kitchen demonstrating professional kitchen operations.
• Awareness of food safety and hygiene practices.

Responsibilities

• Work in all sections of the kitchen under the guidance of the Kitchen Lead Chef.
• Serve and guide team members on serving customers throughout service.
• Deliver exceptional customer service, ensuring a positive first impression.

Skills

Honesty

Problem-solving

Effective communication

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Education

Relevant culinary qualifications (NVQ Level 2 minimum)

Job description

Job Title :

Chef

Reports to :

Estate Chef Lead Chef

Department :

Leisure and Tourism

Location :

Raby Castle

Hours :

40hrs - Permanent

Rate of Pay :

26000 pa

Job Ref :

VA210-2025

About Raby

Raby is a thriving family‑run estate under the stewardship of the Vane family with a rich heritage and a forward‑looking vision.

Steeped in history, Raby Castle is surrounded by over 200 acres of beautiful parkland in County Durham. Raby has been home to generations of the Vane family and remains a vibrant destination offering tourism, hospitality and events throughout the year.

In addition to Raby Castle and its grounds the estate also includes High Force Waterfall, one of England’s most spectacular natural attractions, and the High Force Hotel which offers accommodation and dining in the heart of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The estate comprises extensive landholdings across County Durham and Shropshire with a focus on sustainable land management and stewardship of the countryside.

About the Role

We are looking for a passionate and experienced Chef to join our culinary team at The Vinery. You will work across all sections of the kitchen under the guidance of the Kitchen Lead Chef, preparing menu items for all site locations according to Raby Estate business needs. This is a customer‑facing role requiring excellent service and teamwork.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

Work in all sections of the kitchen under the guidance of the Kitchen Lead Chef, preparing menu items for all site locations according to Raby Estate business needs.

Customer‑facing at the servery: serve and guide team members on serving customers throughout the service.

Help conduct deliveries and quality checks on ingredients and finishing products to ensure consistency and excellence.

Manage your own time and stay motivated with the ability to work quickly and efficiently.

Adhere to production lists according to daily business and event requirements.

Support all food and beverage team members in achieving operational tasks.

Ensure the cleanliness and organization of all areas, including cleaning and sanitizing work areas, utensils and equipment.

Lead by example and comply fully with food safety and health and safety compliance procedures.

Assist in the handling/storage of ingredients and stock checks.

Follow recipes accurately and highlight ingredients required for ordering, allowing for effective ordering for production while adhering to allergen guidelines.

Open and closing duties where applicable.

Deliver exceptional customer service, ensuring that visitors receive a positive first impression and a friendly welcome.

Be an ambassador for Raby.

Actively engage in learning opportunities.

This list is not exhaustive and you will be required to carry out any other reasonable tasks as required.

Requirements

Relevant culinary qualifications such as NVQ Level 2 minimum showcasing foundational knowledge and skills.

Honesty and a high level of integrity.

Systematic and cheerful approach with a can‑do problem‑solving attitude.

Experience in a commercial kitchen demonstrating professional kitchen operations.

Awareness of food safety and hygiene practices with a willingness to learn and adhere to industry standards.

Ability to work effectively as part of the kitchen team demonstrating good communication skills and a collaborative spirit.

Willingness to adapt to different tasks and schedules, responsive to changing needs in the kitchen environment.

A kind and caring attitude towards colleagues and customers.

Help the business be sustainable by maximizing recycling, minimizing waste and being conscious of energy consumption.

A keen desire to develop with the team the food offering within The Vinery, showing enthusiasm for learning new techniques and recipes.

Flexible attitude with willingness to undertake any required task.

Effective communication and organizational skills.

What we have to offer

We strive to offer our employees an excellent working environment and the tools to perform, enabling them to reach their goals and be the best they can be.

Attractive salary.

33 days holiday including statutory holidays

Group Pension Scheme with a 7.7% employer contribution with the option to salary sacrifice.

Group Life Insurance.

Cycle to Work Scheme.

Health Cash Plan.

Employee Assistance Program.

Buy / Sell Holiday Scheme.

Free on‑site car parking.

Discounts at Raby retail and food outlets.

Discounts for stays at Raby’s High Force Hotel.

Complimentary access to Raby Castle and High Force leisure attractions.

A behind‑the‑scenes tour of Raby Castle.

Invitations to Raby Estate social events throughout the year.

A chance to work in one of the most unique and beautiful venues in the region.

A role that is dynamic, engaging and never predictable – no two days will be the same.

A supportive and enthusiastic team that makes every workday enjoyable.

How to apply

If you feel you have the necessary skills, experience and personality to undertake this role, please apply below.