Assistant Cook

Sodexo France; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering company is seeking an Assistant Cook to join their team at Clifton College in Birmingham. In this role, you will prepare, cook, and present meals while maintaining high hygiene standards. Ideal candidates will have experience in similar settings, a passion for food, and excellent teamwork abilities. The position offers competitive pay and additional Sodexo benefits, making it a rewarding opportunity to contribute positively in a school environment.

Benefits

Competitive retirement plan

Discounts at 1,900+ retail brands

24/7 Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Experience as a Chef de Partie or confident Commis Chef with catering experience.
• Genuine passion for food and teamwork.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook, and present meals to high standards.
• Assist with menu planning and ordering ingredients.
• Maintain hygiene and cleanliness standards.

Skills

Communication

Time management

Organisational skills

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

NVQ2 or NVQ3 in catering (or equivalent)

Intermediate Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

Assistant Cook

• Location: Clifton College, 32 College Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3JH
• Rate of Pay: £13.60**
• Hours/Shift Pattern: Monday to Friday 07.00-15.30

Parking not available.

Equated pay (sometimes known as spread-over pay) is a method of paying you for your contracted hours, working weeks and holiday pay spread over 12 months instead of just receiving pay during the months that you work and none during the school closures/non-working weeks. This means that you get paid equal amounts of pay every month. Further information will be supplied at interview stage.

Do you love cooking and want to make a difference in a school setting? Join Sodexo at Clifton College as an Assistant Cook and help create meals that fuel students and staff for success. You’ll be part of a team that values care, collaboration, and bringing people together through great food.

What You’ll Do

• Prepare, cook, and present meals to meet high standards, ensuring they are served on time and at the correct temperature.
• Assist the Head Chef with menu planning, ordering ingredients, and keeping the kitchen running smoothly.
• Receive deliveries, check quality against invoices, and ensure goods are stored correctly using a first-in, first-out system.
• Maintain the highest standards of hygiene, cleanliness, and safety, following all company and statutory regulations.
• Work as part of a team to create a positive, supportive environment where colleagues can thrive.
• Assist with special school events or functions, which may occasionally take place outside normal working hours.
• Communicate with students, staff, and visitors in a friendly, professional, and approachable manner.
• Monitor food portions and waste to help the kitchen operate efficiently and sustainably.
• Identify opportunities for improvement in processes, service, and kitchen operations.

What You Bring

• Experience as a Chef de Partie or a confident Commis Chef ready to take the next step, ideally with catering experience in schools or similar settings.
• A genuine passion for food, teamwork, and creating a positive experience for others.
• Excellent communication, time management, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards and attention to detail.
• Qualifications such as NVQ2 or NVQ3 in catering (or equivalent) and an Intermediate Food Hygiene Certificate. Experience with team management, budget oversight, or leadership is a plus.
• Enhanced DBS clearance is required.
• A proactive approach to learning, self-development, and contributing new ideas to improve the kitchen and service.

What we offer

Working with Sodexo isn’t just another job but a chance to be part of something that matters. Here, you’re welcomed for who you are, encouraged to bring your ideas and purpose to the table, and given the opportunity to make a real difference in the work you do every day. You’ll also find the support, flexibility, and room you need to grow in a way that feels right for you.

With over 20 Sodexo benefits to choose from, you’ll have access to a competitive retirement plan, discounts at 1,900+ retail brands, great gym offers, and a confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme for emotional, legal, and financial support.

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!

Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and/or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland).

Note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.