Kitchen Assistant

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services is recruiting a Kitchen Assistant to support Defence operations on a full-time basis in Plymouth. You will be part of a team that takes pride in its food, brand and people, with a 35-hour week and opportunities to progress within the Compass Group UK & I family.

Key responsibilities include preparing delicious meals, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and ensuring safe operation of equipment.

Qualifications

• Able to work under pressure and prioritise tasks.
• Excellent team player.
• Organised and reliable.
• Willingness to learn and grow.
• Flexible to shift patterns.
• Good timekeeping and punctuality.

Responsibilities

• Prepare high‑quality food for clients and customers.
• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen and surrounding areas.
• Ensure safe use of all machinery and equipment.
• Assist with loading/unloading deliveries.
• Represent Defence and maintain a positive brand image.
• Comply with Food Handling, Hygiene and Health & Safety standards.

Skills

Teamwork

Pressure handling

Time management

Communication

Flexibility

Reliability

Job description

We're looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for Defence on a full time basis, contracted to 35 hours per week. You'll join a team that takes a real pride in what they do, in their food, in their brand but most of all pride in their people. You'll get given every opportunity to progress within a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.

Here's an idea of what your shift patterns will be: Variable shifts

Could you bring your spark to Defence? Here's what you need to know before applying:

Your Key Responsibilities Will Include

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers


• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas


• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment


• Assisting with the loading or unloading of deliveries and supply vehicles


• Representing Defence and maintaining a positive brand image


• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards


• Complying with Health & Safety regulations

Our Ideal Kitchen Assistant Will

• Demonstrate an ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate effectively at all levels


• Be an excellent team player


• Have a committed and organised approach


• Have a desire to succeed in your role


• Possess the ability to work under pressure


• Be flexible to work shifts


• Demonstrate Exceptional timekeeping and reliability

Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.

Job Reference: com/1410/78325001/52610519/BU #Defence

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers.

We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!