Sous Chef Hours: Full time 40 hours per week, 5 days over 7 to include weekends and bank holidays Up to 8% employer-matched pension~ Life assurance~ Free lunch during working hours~ Free on-site parking~20% discount at the Tea room and Abbey Shop~ Cycle to Work Scheme~ Employee Assistance programme~ 50% discount on fitness suite, swimming and other activities at St Albans Centre
Ampleforth Abbey is home to the UK’s largest Benedictine monastic community, rooted in the Rule of St Benedict. Our mission is to seek God through prayer and service, and to invite others to experience faith in action. Ampleforth Abbey Trust, a registered charity, works alongside the monastic community to support this mission. We are looking for a Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in the daily operation of the Abbey kitchens including the tea room and main monastery, ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality, freshly prepared food. The Sous Chef plays a key role in maintaining excellent standards of food quality, hygiene, and efficiency, helping to create a welcoming and memorable experience for all visitors. Kitchen Operations Assist the Head Chef & Executive Chef in the day-to-day running of the kitchens Prepare, cook, and present food to a high standard, in line with the tearoom menu and monetary menus Ensure smooth service during busy periods, maintaining consistency and quality Step into the Head Chef role in their absence Supervise and support kitchen staff, including assistants and volunteers Assist with training, mentoring, and developing team members Food Quality & Menu Support Ensure all food is prepared using fresh ingredients and presented attractively Maintain portion control and minimise waste Stock & Kitchen Management Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and organisation Ensure compliance with all food safety, health and safety, and environmental regulations Previous experience as a Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie ready to step up Solid knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen operations Understanding of food hygiene and safety standards (Level 2 minimum; Level 3 desirable) Allergens Own transport essential due to rural location Experience in a café, tearoom, or high-volume visitor attraction Interest in seasonal, locally sourced, or traditional British cuisine Experience working with volunteers or within a heritage or faith-based setting Personal Qualities Flexible and supportive team player 40 hours per week, including weekends, bank holidays, and peak seasons~ Fast-paced kitchen during busy visitor periods~ Standing for long periods and manual handling required
All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references….