Kitchen Assistant

Swinton Park Hotel; Masham; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave 30 days

NEST pension

Food & spa discounts

Facilities access

Job summary

Swinton Park Hotel in Masham invites apply for a Kitchen Assistant to support the Cookery School Head Chef with food prep, service, and kitchen hygiene.

This 34-hour-per-week contract across 5 days offers full training, a supportive team, and opportunities to develop culinary skills within a renowned, carbon-neutral estate.

Competitive benefits include annual leave, pension, and staff discounts on food, spa, and stays.

Qualifications

• Previous kitchen experience is beneficial but not essential; full training will be provided.
• Strong focus on food safety and kitchen hygiene.
• Able to work flexible shifts and collaborate with the team.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preparation and weighing of ingredients for courses.
• Support Head Chef with kitchen operations and service.
• Follow safety, hygiene, and company procedures.
• Help with receiving deliveries and stock management.

Job description

Kitchen Assistant - 34 hour contract, 5 days out of 7.

We take pride in being a reputable and forward-thinking employer, committed to fostering a supportive, engaging, and dynamic work environment. As a carbon-neutral estate with an ambition to become carbon negative, we are equally dedicated to environmental responsibility as we are to our people. Our culture is built on continuous improvement, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose. We place a strong emphasis on the wellbeing of our team, recognising that our people are at the heart of everything we do.

The Cookery School offers immersive, hands‑on culinary experiences inspired by the estate, seasonality, and a passion for food education. The department delivers engaging cookery courses, demonstrations, and bespoke experiences led by our expert chef, combining professional knowledge with warm, approachable teaching. Playing a key role in showcasing Swinton’s Estate‑to‑Plate philosophy, the Cookery School enhances the guest experience while celebrating quality ingredients, craftsmanship, and culinary inspiration.

The Role

We are seeking a motivated Kitchen Assistant to support our Cookery School Head Chef in delivering high-quality food for guests. Working under the guidance of the Head Chef, you will assist with food preparation, service, kitchen operations, and maintaining the highest standards of food safety and cleanliness.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to start or develop their culinary career within a respected hospitality business.

Key Responsibilities Food Preparation & Service

• Assist in the preparation, and weighing up of ingredients for the guests attending cookery courses.
• Ensure consistency in weighing out of ingredients and ensuring food quality and standard is high.
• Assist with guest requests if required.

Kitchen Operations

• Follow kitchen rotas and complete tasks efficiently and professionally.
• Help receive and correctly store deliveries in line with company procedures.
• Carry out daily and weekly operational checks, including food labelling, dating, storage, and temperature monitoring.
• Participate in opening and closing kitchen procedures as required.

Teamwork & Development

• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the kitchen and wider estate.
• Maintain a positive and professional attitude at all times.
• Communicate effectively with team members and management.
• Attend training and development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Be flexible in working varying shifts to support business needs.
• Undertake additional duties and reasonable requests as directed by management.

Health, Safety & Hygiene

• Maintain exceptional standards of cleanliness throughout the kitchen.
• Follow all food hygiene, health and safety, and company procedures.
• Ensure accurate completion of food safety records and documentation.
• Report equipment faults, hazards, or maintenance concerns promptly.
• Adhere to fire safety, emergency procedures, and safe working practices.
• Maintain the highest standards of personal hygiene, appearance, and professionalism.

About You

We're looking for someone who:

• Has a genuine passion for food and hospitality.
• Takes pride in producing high-quality work.
• Works well as part of a team and communicates effectively.
• Is organised, reliable, and punctual.
• Has a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Understands the importance of food safety and kitchen hygiene.
• Can remain calm and focused in a busy environment.
• Previous kitchen experience is beneficial but not essential; full training will be provided for the right candidate.

Why Join Swinton Estate?

• Work within a renowned and sustainable estate.
• Be part of a supportive and collaborative team.
• Access ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Develop valuable culinary skills in a professional kitchen environment.
• Join an employer that genuinely values employee wellbeing and career progression.

Package description

At Swinton Estate we take pride in recognising and rewarding the dedication of our team members.

Alongside competitive pay and monthly TRONC, our team enjoys an exceptional range of benefits designed to enrich both work and life.

With 30 days’ annual leave - pro rata for part time (including bank holidays) and access to the NEST pension scheme for eligible team members, we’re committed to supporting your wellbeing, security, and professional growth.

From exclusive access to our award-winning facilities and exciting employee events, to wellbeing initiatives and bespoke learning opportunities, every detail reflects our dedication to excellence.

Working with us means becoming part of a team that values quality, care, and genuine hospitality in everything we do.

A few of the exclusive privileges our team enjoy include:

• Access to the Country Club and Spa facilities
• 50% discount on food and beverage (including Cookery School and Chefs Table) for you and up to 5 guests
• 50% discount on spa days for you and up to 3 guests
• Swinton Park Hotel and Swinton Bivouac stays for yourself, friends and family
• And many more!