Job Description

Job Summary

Are you passionate about food, teamwork, and delivering high-quality service in a dynamic environment? New City College is looking for a dedicated Commis Chef to join our vibrant catering team at the Redbridge Campus. Redbridge Campus is a large busy campus on Chadwell Heath Lane near Goodmayes in Essex, it has three different service outlets on-site including franchise brands like Costa and WIU.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in food preparation and cooking, coupled with a desire to learn and grow within the hospitality industry. As a Commis, you will assist in the daily operations of the kitchen, you'll work closely with the Head Chef to ensure our food meets the highest standards across all outlets--from our college canteen to branded coffee shops. You'll help plan menus, manage stock, maintain hygiene standards, and support a flexible, well-trained team.

Responsibilities

Assist in the preparation and cooking of dishes according to established recipes and standards. Support senior kitchen staff in food production tasks, ensuring timely service during busy periods. Maintain cleanliness and organisation of the kitchen area, including proper storage of ingredients and equipment. Follow food safety guidelines and hygiene practices to ensure a safe working environment. Participate in team management activities, contributing to a positive atmosphere within the kitchen. Help with inventory management by monitoring stock levels and reporting shortages to supervisors. Collaborate with other kitchen staff to ensure efficient workflow and high-quality output. Engage in ongoing training opportunities to enhance culinary skills and knowledge.

Who you are:

Ideal candidates will have a solid understanding of food production processes and techniques, basic knowledge of food safety standards, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced setting while maintaining attention to detail. Proven experience in industrial or hospitality catering, including mass catering, is highly beneficial, especially for those capable of overseeing kitchen operations in the Head Chef's absence. Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team are essential, and supervisory experience or leadership qualities will support career progression within the kitchen hierarchy. Join us in creating exceptional dining experiences through creativity, dedication, and teamwork. Please note that all shortlisted applicants will be required to participate in a trial shift as part of the recruitment process.

You will be required to work 4 Saturdays in a calendar year to help support our enrolment events. You will be required to attend Catering CPD days or supplier training.

On occasion you may be asked to work at a Hubbed local campus to support that campus on a temporary basis. At present our Hubbed campuses are:

Hackney Campus and Hackney Sixth Form Poplar and Arbour campuses Rainham and Ardleigh Green Campuses Redbridge and Havering Sixth Form Epping and Epping Wellness centre

What We Offer:

Pension: New City College provides a career average pension scheme for all staff. Support staff fall under the Local Government Pension Scheme Accessibility: All college sites are easily accessible for wheelchair users and via public transport (bus, DLR, or tube). On-Site Facilities: Free access to on-site gym facilities at some campuses and on-site cafes serving subsidised food and drinks. Staff Development: Five CPD (Continuing Professional Development) days per year, with access to industry-standard facilities and a collaborative working environment. Leading to opportunities for career advancement and professional development in a supportive setting. Financial Perks: Interest-free loans for annual travel season tickets. Health cash plan (reimbursement for dental, optical, and therapy treatments) and a completely confidential Employee assistance program. Discounts: Save money on day-to-day expenses, shopping, dining out, DIY, and travel.

For further information please contact Human Resources on 020 7510 7712.

About New City College:

New City College is proud to be an Ofsted Outstanding college, the largest in England to receive this top rating. With campuses across east London, south-west Essex, and two language schools, we are a sector leader in further education.

Joining NCC means becoming part of a forward-thinking, collaborative team committed to delivering high-quality education and skills that benefit our students and communities. We offer industry-standard facilities, expert staff, and strong partnerships with leading organisations. Our focus on future-ready skills and technology ensures students are well-prepared for higher education or employment, and employers trust us for staff training and development.

Following the merger of seven colleges, NCC has become one of the UK's most influential FE providers, offering sixth form education, adult learning, apprenticeships, ESOL, EFL and SEND. With a turnover of 130 million, 20,000 students and 1,800 staff, we are a major force in the sector.

We are proud of our inclusive, diverse community and have a zero-tolerance approach to racism and discrimination. As we look ahead, we remain committed to investing in our people and resources to provide an excellent, supportive learning environment that meets the needs of both students and employers.

We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and actively welcome applications from candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds. This does not prevent any other candidate with or without a protective characteristic from applying for our jobs.

As the College supports a number of children and vulnerable adults, all staff are exempt from Section 4(2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Accordingly, all staff will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check, along with a check of the Children's Barred List if engaged in regulated activity. Any offers of appointment may be withdrawn if these checks prove unsatisfactory. Self-disclosure will be required as part of the recruitment process. Failure to make a full disclosure or to provide sight of your DBS certificate may result in the withdrawal of your offer of employment. The College's DBS policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders is available upon request.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 24,000.00-26,000.00 per year

Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person