Job Description

Sous Chef - Potting Shed Cafe, Chenies Garden Centre

Location:

Chenies, Rickmansworth, WD3 6EN

Position:

Sous Chef (Full-Time)

Working Hours:

Daytime only - no evenings

Days Off:

Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Sunday

About Us

The Potting Shed Cafe is a well-loved part of Chenies Garden Centre, known for its friendly atmosphere, excellent service, and fresh, quality food. We offer a relaxed daytime dining experience, serving homemade soups, freshly prepared sandwiches, paninis, jacket potatoes, and light seasonal meals. We pride ourselves on consistency, customer satisfaction, and a strong team ethos.

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated, reliable Sous Chef to take a leading role in the daily operation of our kitchen. Working closely with the Cafe Manager, you will ensure the smooth running of food preparation and service, maintain high food hygiene standards, and contribute to the ongoing development of our offering. This is a hands-on role, ideal for someone who enjoys daytime hours and values work-life balance.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and support the kitchen team in the preparation and delivery of a high-quality cafe menu Ensure all dishes are consistently prepared and presented to the highest standard Maintain full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations Manage stock levels, assist with ordering, and monitor wastage Take responsibility for kitchen due diligence, including record-keeping and daily checks Assist in developing menu items, specials, and seasonal offerings Train and supervise junior kitchen staff where necessary Communicate effectively with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service

What We're Looking For

Proven experience as a Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie ready to take the next step Strong understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety procedures Hands-on, organised, and able to work calmly under pressure A positive attitude, strong leadership skills, and attention to detail Flexibility to work weekends and peak trading days (excluding holidays listed)

What We Offer

Sociable, daytime working hours No evening shifts Guaranteed time off over Christmas, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Sunday Supportive and friendly working environment Opportunity to take creative ownership within a growing cafe Staff discounts within the garden centre
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person

Reference ID: Chenies Sous