Cook

National Trust; East Grinstead; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A major heritage organization in East Grinstead is seeking a part-time Cook. You will prepare and present fresh dishes, ensure kitchen compliance with health standards, and collaborate with team members. Ideal candidates should have a passion for food, a positive attitude, and be willing to learn. This role offers a competitive hourly rate and extensive benefits, including a pension scheme and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Substantial pension scheme

Free entry to National Trust places

Rental deposit loan scheme

Season ticket loan

EV car lease scheme

Gym membership discounts

Holiday allowance up to 32 days

Flexible working

Qualifications

• Must have a passion for food and a friendly, positive attitude.
• Confident in following recipes and batch-cooking.
• Knowledge of health and safety compliance required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and present fresh, seasonal dishes to visitors.
• Measure, mix, and cook ingredients accurately.
• Assist with deliveries and maintain kitchen cleanliness.

Skills

Passion for food

Positive attitude

Recipe following

Batch cooking

Health and safety compliance

Allergen management awareness

Flexibility

Job description

Cook

Location: Standen, West Hoathly Road, East Grinstead, RH19 4NE

Reference: IRC167107

Closing Date: 16 November 2025

Type: Permanent, Part Time

Hours: 22.5 per week

Salary: £12.75 per hour (approximately £24,862.50 per annum)

Responsibilities

• Prepare and present fresh, seasonal dishes directly to visitors, following the National Trust Cookbook.
• Measure, mix, and cook ingredients accurately; ensure batch cooking meets standards.
• Assist with deliveries, maintain kitchen cleanliness, and adhere to health & safety legislation.
• Support smooth service flow and collaborate with team members.

Qualifications & Experience

• Passion for food and a friendly, positive attitude.
• Confident following recipes and batch‑cooking; willingness to learn.
• Knowledge of health and safety compliance; awareness of allergen management.
• Ability to work flexible hours and complete an online assessment as part of the application.

Benefits

• Substantial pension scheme (up to 10 % of basic salary).
• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest, and children under 18.
• Rental deposit loan scheme.
• Season ticket loan.
• EV car lease scheme.
• Workplace perks: gym membership discounts, shopping and cinema discounts.
• Holiday allowance up to 32 days (plus holiday purchase scheme subject to criteria).
• Flexible working whenever possible.
• Employee assistance programme.
• Free parking at most Trust places.

Additional Information

The National Trust values diversity and inclusivity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to reflecting the communities we serve.

Eligible candidates must comply with UK work‑right provisions.

Important: As part of our redeployment policy, priority will be given to employees under formal notice of redundancy.