THE QUEENS' COLLEGE OF SAINT MARGARET AND SAINT BERNARD IN THE UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE
Queens' College
Full-time
28th October 2025

Queens’ College is looking for a Commis Chef to assist with the preparation and production of food in line with daily requirements, following instructions from the Head Chef, Sous Chef, or Chef de Partie. You will play an important role in maintaining the high culinary standards set by our Catering Department, supporting the smooth, efficient and cost-effective running of the kitchen.

As Commis Chef, you’ll work across different sections, help with food prep and service, ensure excellent hygiene and food safety practices, and contribute to a positive and professional team culture.

The ideal candidate will bring both skill and passion to our kitchen. We are looking for someone with:

  • Previous experience working in a fast-paced environment (such as commercial kitchen, ideally within an independent or boutique establishment), with a focus on preparing dishes from scratch.
  • Demonstrated competency in basic food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen hygiene.
  • Proven ability to manage food safety and allergens in line with industry standards.
  • Proficient verbal, written and numerical skills.
  • courteous, approachable and diligent
  • A strong team player, able to collaborate effectively and work independently when required.
  • Proven ability to follow direction from senior chefs.
  • A proactive, problem-solving approach to kitchen operations and service challenges.
  • Familiarity with COSHH and HACCP

This is a 37.5 hours per week role, with a requirement for these hours to be worked flexibly across seven days, including evenings, weekends and public holidays. Additional hours may be necessary from time to time, for which time off in lieu or overtime will be provided.

For a full overview of the role, requirements and person specification, please refer to the job description.

Remuneration and Benefits:

  • Salary: Highly competitive
  • Final Salary Pension Scheme after qualifying period
  • 26 days’ holiday, in addition to public holidays (34 in total)
  • We offer a range of non-contractual benefits, currently we offer:
    • One free meal during working hours (prepared daily by our chefs)
    • Parking on-site (when available)
    • Sporting facilities, including on-site gym
    • Free annual flu vaccination
    • Subsidised nursery fees
    • Subsidised sports and social events
    • Discounted membership of dental or medical insurance
    • Access to University Card, which also offers subsidised travel on U bus between Madingley Road Park and Ride and the College
    • Subject to qualifying periods: Annual Service Awards, additional holiday entitlement and a day off every year for your Birthday

Further details are available from the HR Office, email: jobs@queens.cam.ac.uk

To apply for this position, all applicants are required to complete the HR Details and submit it along with their full CV to jobs@queens.cam.ac.uk

Closing date for completed applications will be 10am Tuesday 28th October 2025, with interviews being conducted shortly after.

We have a legal responsibility to ensure all staff have the legal right to live and work in the UK. If you are made an offer of employment, we will need to verify this right before you start work.

© 2025 Queens' College, Cambridge, CB3 9ET, United Kingdom, +44 (0)1223 335511

Queens' College is a Registered Charity, registered with The Charity Commission for England and Wales, number 1137495

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Commis Chef - THE QUEENS' COLLEGE OF SAINT MARGARET AND SAINT BERNARD IN THE UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE | Work In Charities