Job Description

Job Title: Head Chef (Langar Kitchen)

Location: Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Slough

Reports to: Gurdwara Management Committee

Employment Type: Full-Time (including weekends and religious events)

Salary: Competitive, based on experience

About Us

Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Slough is one of the UK's largest and most active Sikh temples, serving the spiritual, cultural, and social needs of the Sikh community. Central to our services is the provision of

Langar

--a free community kitchen that serves thousands of meals weekly to people of all backgrounds.

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced

Head Chef

to lead our Langar kitchen, ensuring food is prepared to the highest standards of taste, hygiene, and adherence to Sikh religious practices.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the day-to-day operations of the Langar kitchen, including meal planning, food preparation, and service coordination. Supervise and support kitchen staff and volunteers, ensuring smooth and efficient service during daily Langar and special events. Prepare traditional vegetarian Punjabi dishes in accordance with Sikh dietary customs (no meat, fish, eggs, or alcohol). Manage kitchen inventory, food ordering, and waste reduction in a cost-effective manner. Ensure compliance with all food safety, hygiene, and health regulations (Food Standards Agency guidelines). Collaborate with Gurdwara committee members on budgeting, planning for large events, and ongoing kitchen improvements. Train and mentor volunteers, fostering a spirit of

seva

(selfless service). Maintain cleanliness and organization of all kitchen areas at all times.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Proven experience in a similar chef or kitchen leadership role (preferably within a religious, community, or large-scale catering environment). Deep understanding of Punjabi vegetarian cuisine and traditional cooking methods. Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work with volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. Knowledge of food hygiene regulations and experience maintaining a 5-star hygiene kitchen. Fluent in spoken Punjabi and English (preferred but not essential). Understanding and respect for Sikh values, traditions, and Gurdwara protocols.

Desirable Attributes

Formal culinary training or relevant certifications (e.g., Food Safety Level 2/3). Experience in bulk cooking (preparing meals for 500-2,000+ people). Commitment to

seva

, humility, and working as part of a diverse spiritual community. Calm under pressure, with excellent organizational and time-management skills.

Working Hours

Full-time role, including weekends and Sikh religious events. Flexibility required during Gurpurabs, Nagar Kirtans, and other major community gatherings.

To Apply

Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your experience and motivation to serve in this role.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 12.21-12.50 per hour

Expected hours: 40 - 50 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Discounted or free food Employee discount Free parking On-site gym On-site parking
Schedule:

8 hour shift Day shift Every weekend Monday to Friday Weekend availability
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: Chef03