Chef De Partie (Daytime)

Chartwells Independent; Dunstable; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free meals on shift

Compass Group benefits including/disoc

Training and career progression

Overtime opportunities

Unique wildlife setting

Job summary

Chartwells Independent is hiring a Daytime Chef de Partie at Whipsnade Zoo, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland. You’ll be part of the kitchen team delivering high-quality food to thousands of visitors each day in a unique wildlife attraction.

This role focuses on preparing and cooking to menu standards, supporting the Head Chef and Sous Chef, managing your section during service, and upholding food safety and hygiene.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working as a Chef de Partie or strong experience as a Commis Chef ready to step up.
• Good understanding of food safety and kitchen operations.
• Ability to remain calm and organised during busy services.
• A team player with a positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Flexibility to work weekends, bank holidays, and peak visitor periods.

Responsibilities

• Preparing and cooking food to a high standard in line with menu specifications.
• Taking responsibility for a section during service.
• Supporting the Head Chef and Sous Chef in the day-to-day running of the kitchen.
• Supporting stock control, food rotation, and waste reduction.
• Helping to maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment.

Skills

Teamwork

Calm under pressure

Food safety knowledge

Menu execution

Time management

Job description

We’re looking for an Daytime Chef de Partie to join our team at Whipsnade Zoo

As a Chef de Partie, you’ll be a key part of the kitchen team delivering high-quality food to thousands of visitors each day at one of the UK’s most unique visitor attractions. Working within Compass Group UK & Ireland, you’ll help ensure our kitchens operate smoothly, safely, and efficiently during busy service periods.

This role is ideal for a passionate chef who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in producing great food consistently.

What you’ll be doing

• Preparing and cooking food to a high standard in line with menu specifications
• No evening or split shifts required!
• Supporting the Head Chef and Sous Chef in the day-to-day running of the kitchen
• Taking responsibility for a section during service
• Ensuring food safety, hygiene, and allergen procedures are followed at all times
• Supporting stock control, food rotation, and waste reduction
• Helping to maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment

What we’re looking for

• Previous experience working as a Chef de Partie or strong experience as a Commis Chef ready to step up
• Good understanding of food safety and kitchen operations
• Ability to remain calm and organised during busy services
• A team player with a positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Flexibility to work weekends, bank holidays, and peak visitor periods

What we offer

• Competitive pay and opportunities for overtime
• Free meals on shift
• Compass Group benefits including discounts and wellbeing support
• Training and career progression opportunities within Compass Group
• The chance to work in a unique setting at one of the UK’s largest wildlife attractions