Overview
We are looking to recruit an experienced Chef De Partie (CDP) to support our in-house catering team in delivering an outstanding catering service to our students and staff. This will include our events and hospitality services. Our state-of-the-art AgriFood centre has space for conferences and events catering up to 500 attendees, and our college dining room service provides for all our students and a large number of staff every day. The successful applicant will assist in the daily running of our college dining room services for our day and residential students as well as the Graze Café, which is open for HE students, staff, and external visitors. This is an exciting time to join the College as we grow our catering business to adapt to the needs of our students and growth in our commercial activities in conferences and events.
The ideal candidate will be a professional, hardworking, and confident team player with a track record of working in a similar environment or in fresh produce catering establishments.
This Role Includes
a. Be part of the catering team, ensuring a high standard of provision at all Plumpton College’s catering outlets and at conferences/events/meetings as directed.
b. Ensure that everyone using the catering facilities is treated politely and courteously, be they students, staff or guests.
c. As directed by the Head Chef, prepare menus appropriate to student needs, and menus for other functions i.e. conferences/meetings for internal and external clients
d. Work according to the College goals relating to promoting sustainability, healthy eating and our support of local rural business by using local seasonal produce
e. Keep up to date with food safety guidelines and legislation to ensure compliance. Ensure kitchen and servery wash-up areas and kitchen areas are in a clean and hygienic condition.
f. Undertake manual handling tasks when required by the role’s daily tasks
g. Comply fully with cleaning schedules and assigned cleaning/upkeep tasks
h. Ensure accurate cleaning records and food temperature records at all times
i. Carry out strict portion control measures to minimise food wastage
j. Comply with food hygiene regulations by wearing the appropriate clean protective clothing while preparing and serving food and monitor this within the team.
k. Ensure that all stock is stored appropriately and stock rotation procedures are followed. Ensure that all stock issued to other departments is recorded to enable stock records to be kept accurately
l. Be flexible when required to cover for functions requiring catering during holiday periods and at weekends and evenings
m. Follow meal eligibility procedures for students, staff and guests at all times
n. Assist in all areas of the catering operations including our dining room/snack bars/function meeting rooms when required.
o. Where required provide temporary cover in a similar capacity to complete catering services at the College’s subsidiary company at One Garden Brighton
Skills Required
A catering qualification or demonstrable experience in a high-volume kitchen
Hold a current Food Hygiene Certificate and have strong working knowledge of the regulations which apply in a professional kitchen
Have at least two years’ experience in a similar role
Proficiency in a range of cuisines and cooking techniques
A passion for good food, sustainability and providing a healthy menu
Physically fit, able to undertake manual handling duties
Able to demonstrate great customer service skills
Strong understanding of allergens, dietary requirements and cross-contamination
Excellent communication skills to interact with kitchen staff and managerial staff
Additional Information
As well as a competitive salary, you can also look forward to a great range of benefits including: up to 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata), and up to 5 efficiency days at Christmas; membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme; comprehensive CPD; TOTUM card; Employee Assistance Programme; free onsite parking; discounted Plumpton wine; staff discounts on Plumpton courses; free eye tests; cycle to work scheme; and free use of the onsite gym.
