Lead Chef: Sustainable, High-Volume Kitchen Leader

Chester Zoo; Chester; On-site; GBP 26,865 - 32,835; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

33 days annual leave

Staff family pass

Complimentary tickets for friends and family

Access to a healthcare plan

Employer-contributory pension scheme

Complimentary access to staff events

Job summary

Chester Zoo is looking for a Lead Chef to join our culinary team, responsible for delivering exceptional dining experiences across our venues. You will manage kitchen operations, support the Sous Chef, and ensure high standards of food quality and sustainability.

This permanent position offers a salary of £29,850 per annum for a 40-hour week, along with paid overtime, annual leave, and various staff benefits including complimentary tickets and a healthcare plan.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience of chef skills in a high-volume business.
• Understanding of current restaurant and event food trends.
• Good knowledge of COSHH and workplace application.

Responsibilities

• Support day-to-day running of the kitchen.
• Act as first point of contact for service recovery.
• Devise on-trend menus for all venues.

Skills

Chef skills in high‑volume business

Customer service skills

Stock handling

Communication and coaching skills

Education

Minimum Level 2 Food Safety qualification

Job description

Chester Zoo is looking for a Lead Chef to join our culinary team, responsible for delivering exceptional dining experiences across our venues. You will manage kitchen operations, support the Sous Chef, and ensure high standards of food quality and sustainability.

This permanent position offers a salary of £29,850 per annum for a 40-hour week, along with paid overtime, annual leave, and various staff benefits including complimentary tickets and a healthcare plan.