Commis Chef

Peoplebank; Ashford; Hybrid; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Share of tips

Flexible hours

Pension plan

Employee discounts

Career development

Job summary

Shepherd Neame is seeking a Commis Chef at The Old Mill in Kennington, Ashford. You will support the kitchen team, learn new skills, and help deliver dishes that customers love. This entry-level role is ideal for starting or growing a culinary career within a historic brewery pub group.

No experience? No problem—training and support are provided to help you thrive in a busy kitchen and build confidence across service periods.

Qualifications

• Pride in your work and high standards.
• Positive energy and willingness to learn.
• Attention to detail in presentation and quality.
• Adaptability to busy service periods.
• Team spirit and collaboration with colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Assist the kitchen team with food preparation and cooking tasks.
• Maintain high standards of hygiene and cleanliness in all kitchen areas.
• Follow recipes and instructions to ensure consistency and quality.
• Keep workstations organised and stocked during service.
• Work as part of a team to ensure smooth service during busy periods.

Skills

Food preparation

Hygiene standards

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Adaptability

Positive attitude

Job description

Employment type: Part Time
Contract: Permanent
Salary: To be discussed to be discussed at venue

Commis Chef – Start Your Culinary Journey with Britain’s Oldest Brewer!

At Shepherd Neame, we know that great food is at the heart of a memorable experience. As a Commis Chef, you’ll play a key role in supporting our kitchen team, learning new skills, and helping to deliver dishes that keep guests coming back. This is the perfect opportunity to start or grow your career in hospitality.

No experience? No problem! If you have the right attitude and passion for food, we’ll provide all the training and support you need.

Where You’ll Be Working

The Old Mill in Kennington, Ashford is a cosy country pub located on Canterbury Road, overlooking Dukes Spring, a tributary of the Great Stour River. Dating back to the early 19th century, the Old Mill is a Grade II listed building, taking its name from the nearby Kennington Mill, little of which now remains, having previously been known as the Golden Ball.

What You’ll Do

• Assist the kitchen team with food preparation and cooking tasks.
• Maintain high standards of hygiene and cleanliness in all kitchen areas.
• Follow recipes and instructions to ensure consistency and quality.
• Keep workstations organised and stocked during service.
• Work as part of a team to ensure smooth service during busy periods.

What’s In It For You?

• Competitive hourly pay plus a share of tips
• Early wage withdrawal scheme
• 25% discount on food and drink at Shepherd Neame Managed Houses
• 25% discount on overnight stays at Managed House Hotels
• Up to 40% off select purchases from our Visitor Centre Shop in Faversham
• Exclusive discounts via Sheps Hut on hundreds of high street brands
• Access to a Workplace Mental Health Platform
• Company pension plan
• Career development opportunities across our pubs, Brewery, and Support Office
• Flexible working hours to suit your lifestyle

What You’ll Need

We’re looking for behaviours that make a great Commis Chef:

• Pride in your work – you care about doing things properly and keeping standards high.
• Positive energy – you bring enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
• Attention to detail – you take care with presentation and quality.
• Adaptability – you stay calm and proactive when things get busy.
• Team spirit – you enjoy working with others and supporting your colleagues.

Why Shepherd Neame?

Our culture is built on Sheps Spirit, Working Together, Pride and Passion, and Authenticity—values that have guided us for over 300 years. When you join us, you become part of a team that celebrates tradition while shaping the future.

Ready to bring your personality and passion to the kitchen?