Salary
£26,908 to £28,890 per annum plus additional 15% payment for hours worked at the weekend. Posts will initially be offered at the minimum salary point with progression to the higher salary point achieved through an annual incremental pay rise.
Area
Catering – Halls
Location
UK Other
Closing Date
Wednesday 01 July 2026
Reference
NHE011126
About The Role
We’re looking for an enthusiastic, motivated Chef to join our award-winning catering team at the University of Nottingham. Based at either University Park or Jubilee Campus, you’ll be at the heart of one of our busy student Halls of Residence – supporting and deputising for the Head Chef to lead both kitchen and front‑of‑house operations.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and serve consistent, high‑quality meals for our resident students during term time
- Cater for a variety of events, conferences, and weddings (up to 350 guests) during vacation periods
- Step up in the Head Chef’s absence to lead the team and ensure smooth operations
- Get involved in everything from formal banquets to lively student dining
What’s In It For You?
- Great work‑life balance – sociable hours compared to most hospitality roles
- Job security – a permanent, year‑round contract with one of the UK’s top universities
- Career development – structured training, support, and industry‑recognised qualifications to help you grow
- Generous holiday allowance – 27 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and additional university closure days
- Excellent staff benefits – including Employee Assistance Programme, supplier discounts, travel schemes, and access to state‑of‑the‑art sports facilities
- Supportive environment – join a professional, friendly team with regular staff events and networks
- Tools & perks – uniform provided and everything you need to do your job well
What We’re Looking For
- Qualified to 706 1/2 or NVQ 1/2 in Food Production, or has relevant experience in a busy kitchen environment
- A confident chef with excellent cooking skills and supervisory experience
- Comfortable with stock management and using Microsoft Office software
- A strong team player with attention to detail and a genuine passion for food
Working Hours
- 36.25 hours per week, across 5 days out of 7 (mainly 11:15am–7:30pm), including regular weekends. Hours worked at the weekend will be enhanced by an additional 15% payment.
- Occasional early shifts (6:00am–2:15pm) or late finishes (up to 10:00pm) during special events
- Flexibility is required – and job share arrangements may be considered
The Recruitment Process
The interview process includes a short interview and a practical skills test (around 2 hours). Full details will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
Right to Work
This position does not fulfil the UK Visas & Immigration sponsorship criteria for Skilled Worker, therefore we can only accept applications from candidates who already have the right to work in the UK.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Our university is a supportive, inclusive, caring and positive community. We welcome those of different cultures, ethnicities and beliefs – indeed this very diversity is vital to our success, it is fundamental to our values and enriches life on campus. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and have achieved the Athena Swan Gold Award.
Benefits
Discover our benefits and visit Your Benefits website for further information.
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