Cook-R2

University of Reading; Henley-on-Thames; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Part time

Job summary

A UK University is seeking a part-time Cook to join their team dedicated to creating great campus food experiences. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively with the aspiring chef team, ensuring adherence to food safety regulations while preparing fresh, nutritious dishes. This position offers opportunities for professional development and team collaboration.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Inclusion in a diverse workplace

Qualifications

• Experience in a kitchen environment is preferred.
• Ability to follow food safety regulations and procedures.
• Commitment to quality and sustainability in food preparation.

Responsibilities

• Follow all regulations & legislation including fire procedures.
• Prepare nutritious and tasty dishes from scratch.
• Work collaboratively with the aspiring chef team.

Skills

Basic food safety knowledge

Good verbal communication skills

Problem-solving abilities

Calmness under pressure

Job description

Part Time, Permanent

Term Time Only would be considered , 20 hours per week

Closing date: 23:59 on 26 Nov 2025

Interviews will be held w/c 1st Dec 2025 at Henley Business school in Henley, location confirmed when interviewed booked

Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. However, non-UK candidates who do not already have permission to work in the UK should note that by reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship will not be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

We are different so forget any ideas of what you think we do….

About the role

We are looking for Cook who shares our passion for great food to join us on our journey to create the best campus food experience. This post is an important and vital post within our team and will involve working with our Aspiring Chef team.

We produce fresh, nutritious and tasty dishes from scratch, with our menus changing daily and following seasonality across six kitchens.

We are committed to the 24 Principles of Menus of Change, guiding our thinking around nutrition and sustainability. We are the first European Member of the Menus of Change Universities Research Collaborative (MCURC). MCURC is a group of 70 like-minded Universities committed to using academic and operational research to improve the health of individuals and the planet.

Visit www.reading.ac.uk/menusofchange to find out more.

Find out more about working in Hospitality in a University - https://youtu.be/r97ujErXPS8?feature=shared

Team Structure

The University operate three teams of Chefs & Kitchen Porters, each reporting to a Head Chef covering our Hotel, Cafes, Bars, Event Catering and large Dining Halls. Staff regularly move between teams to ensure professional development.

Responsibilities

• Follow all regulations & legislation including fire procedures, C.O.S.H.H. & accident procedures.
• Basic food safety knowledge.
• Good verbal communication skills.
• Ability to recognise and deal with problems as they arise.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.

Benefits and Career Development

We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role can be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying.

We do not consider applications from individuals who do not have the right to work in the UK for this position.

All applications must be made via the University website.

Please see the job description and personal specification for further details.

For more information, please contact:

Contact Name: Jason Barnwell
Contact Job Title: Head Chef
Contact Email address: [e-mail]
Alternative Name: Angela Perez
Alternative Contact Job Title: Deputy Bars and Dining Manager
Alternative Contact Email address: [e-mail]

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.