Junior Sous Chef (1899)

The Donkey Sanctuary; Sidmouth; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to animal welfare as a Junior Sous Chef. This role offers the chance to enhance visitor experiences by delivering compassionate, high-quality food while working alongside a passionate team. You'll be responsible for maintaining food safety standards and inspiring your team to exceed expectations. With a full-time, fixed-term contract until December 2025, this position provides an exciting opportunity to contribute to a meaningful mission in a supportive environment. If you're a motivated team player with a passion for culinary excellence, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience as a chef within the catering industry.
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate or above is required.

Responsibilities

• Support the team to deliver high-quality, welfare-conscious food.
• Inspire and mentor chefs and kitchen assistants.

Skills

Catering experience

Food Hygiene Level 2

Teamwork

Decision making under pressure

Self-motivation

Education

Relevant culinary qualifications

Job description

The Donkey Sanctuary is an international animal welfare organisation dedicated to caring for and protecting donkeys worldwide. Our vision is a world where every donkey has a good quality of life, and our mission is to improve their lives daily through understanding, collaboration, and support, fostering mutually beneficial relationships.

About the role: Junior Sous Chef

As a Junior Sous Chef, you will enhance our visitor experience by acting as an ambassador for The Donkey Sanctuary. Working alongside the Head Chef, you will translate our core values into a well-operating, team-focused kitchen that consistently delivers excellent, compassionate food quality.

About you:

• Substantial experience as a chef within the catering industry and relevant qualifications.
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate or above.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and meet deadlines.
• A true team player.
• Self-motivated with a flexible, 'can-do' attitude.
• Valid UK driving licence.

Key responsibilities:

• Supporting the team to deliver high-quality, welfare-conscious food that meets standards.
• Inspiring and mentoring chefs and kitchen assistants to exceed customer expectations.
• Developing team members through coaching and mentoring for future growth.
• Ensuring food safety and hygiene procedures are maintained at the highest standards.
• Offering a menu that reflects our values, including higher-welfare, vegetarian, and vegan options, suitable for various events.
• Collaborating on achieving and reporting gross profit targets.
• Managing the kitchen and team in the absence of senior staff.

This is a full-time, fixed-term contract from as soon as possible until 31 December 2025, working 37.5 hours per week, five days over seven, with some weekend work as part of the rota. Split-shifts are not included in this role.

Application deadline: Tuesday, 20 May 2025.

The Donkey Sanctuary is a Disability Confident Employer and committed to safeguarding vulnerable groups. All staff and volunteers undergo safeguarding procedures, including DBS checks where applicable.

Note: The Guaranteed Interview Scheme applies only to candidates with disabilities applying for roles within the UK.

Applicants are asked to submit their application in their own words, without the use of AI writing tools, to ensure authenticity and originality.