Junior Sous Chef / Senior Chef de Partie

Houston & Hawkes Ltd; City of London; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic independent caterer in Central London is seeking a passionate Junior Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in daily kitchen operations. You'll prepare high-quality dishes, maintain presentation standards, and mentor junior staff. Ideal candidates will have experience in a high-quality kitchen environment and a commitment to excellence. This position offers competitive salary and a range of benefits including free meals, pension scheme, and training opportunities.

Benefits

Free meals at work

Contributory pension scheme

Life assurance at two times salary

20 days holiday plus statutory bank holidays

Training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience as a strong Chef de Partie or Junior Sous Chef in a high-quality kitchen environment.
• Self-motivated and reliable with high standards.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef and Sous Chef with kitchen operations.
• Prepare ingredients and cook dishes to a high standard.
• Maintain presentation standards in line with company expectations.

Skills

Passion for food and quality ingredients

Efficient work under pressure

Excellent time management

Customer-focused approach

Education

NVQ / 706/2 or equivalent chef qualifications

Job description

Junior Sous Chef / Senior Chef de Partie – Houston & Hawkes

Location: Central London

Base pay: £38,000‑£39,000 per annum

Shift pattern: Monday–Friday

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Full‑time

Duties

• Supporting the Head Chef and Sous Chef with the daily running of the kitchen.
• Assisting with setting up the kitchen and ensuring ingredients are fresh, stored correctly and rotated.
• Preparing ingredients and cooking dishes to a high standard, ensuring consistency in flavour and presentation.
• Contributing to the creation of seasonal menu items and food concepts.
• Maintaining excellent presentation standards in line with Houston & Hawkes expectations.
• Ensuring dietary and allergen requirements are understood and followed for all customers, including staff, guests and visitors.
• Supporting and mentoring junior team members.
• Demonstrating personal growth and a desire to continually improve skills.

Requirements

• A genuine passion for food and quality ingredients.
• Experience as a strong Chef de Partie or Junior Sous Chef in a high-quality kitchen environment.
• Ability to work efficiently and competently under pressure.
• Excellent time management and organisational skills.
• Self‑motivated, reliable and committed to high standards.
• NVQ / 706/2 or equivalent chef qualifications preferred.
• Honesty, transparency, professionalism and the ability to work well within a team.
• Customer‑focused approach and a positive attitude.
• Computer literacy beneficial.

Benefits

• Free meals at work.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• Free access to the company Employee Assistance Programme.
• Life assurance at two times salary.
• Company events including a full company Christmas party.
• Uniform provided.
• 20 days holiday plus statutory bank holidays.
• Recognition schemes and staff awards.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
• Day off on your birthday.
• Referral bonuses.
• Training and development opportunities, including regular masterclasses with renowned chef Sally Abe.

Who We Are

Houston & Hawkes is a young and dynamic independent caterer based in the South East. We are proud to be an award‑winning company, ranked among the top 30 hospitality employers, and a certified B Corp. We create memorable experiences through vibrant, creative and sustainable food. We operate coffee bars, staff restaurants and delis tailored to our clients’ needs. We are committed to responsible sourcing, celebrating Great British produce and investing in our talented teams.

Join Houston & Hawkes and be part of a team that values excellence, creativity and professional growth.