Sous Chef / 2nd Chef

Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd; Tredegar; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A local hotel is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in kitchen operations. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in fresh-food cooking and be knowledgeable about food safety. Responsibilities include food preparation, supporting menu development, and maintaining high standards of hygiene. This role requires flexibility in working hours, including evenings and weekends, and a commitment to quality in a collaborative kitchen environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef or equivalent role.
• Strong understanding of cooking operations in a busy kitchen.
• Knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and allergen management.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in all aspects of food preparation and service.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Assist in menu development and specials.

Skills

Fresh-food cooking

Kitchen operations

Food safety knowledge

Organizational skills

Job description

Reporting to: Head Chef / General Manager Hotel Profile: The Tredegar Arms Hotel is a 10-bed boutique hotel with a busy bar, restaurant, and function room, serving both local customers and overnight guests.

The kitchen delivers a quality, fresh-food offering across day-to-day service, events, and functions.

Role Purpose: The Sous Chef / Second Chef plays a key role in supporting the Head Chef in the day-to-day operation of the kitchen.

This position requires a reliable, skilled, and motivated chef who can maintain high food standards, support menu delivery, and ensure consistency, cleanliness, and compliance at all times.

The role is hands-on and operational, with responsibility for service delivery, food preparation, and contributing to the overall success of the food offering.

Key Responsibilities: Kitchen Operations Support the Head Chef in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of all food.

Take responsibility for kitchen operations during shifts or in the absence of the Head Chef.

Ensure all dishes are prepared to specification and delivered consistently.

Assist with menu development, specials, and seasonal dishes.

Food Quality & Standards Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and portion control.

Ensure food is prepared using fresh ingredients and in line with agreed menus.

Minimise waste through effective stock control and preparation practices.

Health, Safety & Compliance Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health and safety legislation.

Maintain clean, organised, and safe kitchen areas at all times.

Complete temperature checks, cleaning schedules, and food safety records.

Support food safety audits and inspections.

Stock & Cost Control Assist with ordering, stock rotation, and storage.

Monitor stock levels and report shortages or issues promptly.

Support the Head Chef in controlling food costs and margins.

Team Support Support and guide kitchen colleagues during service.

Promote a positive, professional, and collaborative working environment.

Assist with training and development of junior kitchen team members where required.

Person Specification Essential Proven experience as a Sous Chef, Second Chef, or equivalent role.

Strong understanding of fresh-food cooking and kitchen operations.

Knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and allergen management.

Ability to work calmly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

Flexible approach to working hours, including evenings and weekends.

Reliable, organised, and committed to high standards.

Desirable Experience in a hotel, pub, or restaurant environment.

Experience supporting events and function catering.

Relevant food safety qualifications (or willingness to obtain).

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