Job Description

Sous Chef – Wattisham Airfield

Pay: £16.65 per hour? Hours: 37.5 hours per weekWorking Pattern: 5 days over 7

Shift Patterns

• Early: 06:30 – 14:30
• Late: 12:00 – 20:00

Meal Service Times

• Breakfast: 07:00 – 08:30
• Lunch: 12:00 – 13:30
• Dinner: 17:00 – 20:00

Catering for up to 50 Service Personnel per day within a team of 6.

We are recruiting a motivated and experienced Sous Chef to join our catering team at Wattisham. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a professional Defence catering environment, supporting the Head Chef in delivering high-quality, nutritious meals while leading and developing the kitchen team.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in the day-to-day running of the kitchen
• Prepare, cook, and serve high-quality meals across all services
• Supervise, motivate, and support kitchen staff to maintain standards
• Ensure excellent food hygiene, safety, and cleanliness practices
• Assist with menu planning, stock control, ordering, and allergen management
• Deliver efficient service across all shift patterns

About You

• Previous experience essential in a similar role (Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie)
• Culinary qualifications desirable (City & Guilds / NVQ or equivalent)
• Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills
• Passion for great food and quality service
• Flexible, reliable, and comfortable working early and late shifts

We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:

• Contributory pension scheme
• Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
• Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
• Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, and many more
• Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
• Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
• Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
• You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families

Please note: This role is contracted to weeks per year

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.

Job Reference: com/2603/95373001/52622265/R/SU #Defence

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. xsrmqjs We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!