Lead Sous Chef – High-Volume Defence Catering

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services; Yeovil; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension scheme

Career Pathways & MyLearning programs

Digital GP & wider healthcare benefits

Travel discounts with major providers

Tesco/Sainsbury's/Morrisons shopping;%

Cinema discounts

Cash rewards on purchases

Wellness and mindfulness classes

Discounts for friends and family

Job summary

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services, delivering catering at RNAS Yeovilton, is seeking a hands-on Sous Chef to lead a fast-paced kitchen operation. You will deliver nutritious meals for Service Personnel, manage a small team, and uphold high standards in a structured environment.

The role is based at RNAS Yeovilton, involves 40 hours per week, and offers a competitive £33,900 per annum salary with opportunities to lead and develop the team while maintaining top-tier food safety and

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Sous Chef or Senior Chef role.
• Hands-on leader who works with their team.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to manage a small team and budgets.
• Calm under pressure in high-volume catering.
• Safety-first mindset with passion for food.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver high-quality, nutritious meals for Service Personnel.
• Lead from the front in a hands-on Sous Chef role.
• Manage daily feeding and function activities.
• Support, motivate, and develop a team.
• Ensure excellent food presentation and service standards.
• Manage food ordering, stock control and minimise waste.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and safety.
• Manage budgets and ensure financial targets are met.
• Ensure compliance with Food Safety and Health & Safety regulations.

Skills

Hands-on leadership

Food safety

High-volume catering

Team motivation

Budget management

Job description

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services, delivering catering at RNAS Yeovilton, is seeking a hands-on Sous Chef to lead a fast-paced kitchen operation. You will deliver nutritious meals for Service Personnel, manage a small team, and uphold high standards in a structured environment.

The role is based at RNAS Yeovilton, involves 40 hours per week, and offers a competitive £33,900 per annum salary with opportunities to lead and develop the team while maintaining top-tier food safety and