We’re looking for an experienced, permanent Sous Chef who’s ready for a new challenge and wants to play a key role in shaping the future of a growing brunch café. We are a small team, who are passionate, supportive and genuinely enjoy what we do - and we are looking for someone who wants to grow with us.
Our food is centred around seasonal, hearty dishes made with care — quality brunch plates, fresh ingredients, comforting flavours, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
We are a team where everyone helps each other out, communication matters and hard work is appreciated.
We’re currently evolving our menu and concept to attract a new customer base, so this is a great opportunity for someone who wants more responsibility, creative involvement, and the chance to help build something exciting from the ground up.
This role is ideal for someone confident running a kitchen independently alongside a Kitchen Porter, while maintaining high standards across all areas of the kitchen.
The Role
You’ll be responsible for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, ensuring consistency, cleanliness, organisation, and smooth service while helping develop the direction of the food offering. A typical working day would begin at 7:30am and end at 4pm, although we are looking for someone who can be flexible. Weekend work is required.
Key Responsibilities
- Running the kitchen independently during prep and service
- Preparing fresh seasonal dishes to a high standard
- Managing stock control, rotation, and kitchen organisation
- Placing orders and monitoring stock levels efficiently
- Maintaining a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment
- Ensuring all food hygiene and health & safety standards are followed
- Opening and closing the kitchen
- Training and supporting junior staff and Kitchen Porters
- Assisting with menu ideas, specials, and kitchen development
- Managing prep schedules and reducing waste
- Maintaining consistency and attention to detail in every dish
What We’re Looking For
- Previous experience as a Junior Sous Chef or Sous Chef in a fresh-food kitchen
- Someone organised, reliable, and able to work independently
- Passion for cooking and seasonal comfort food
- Strong understanding of kitchen operations and food safety
- Confident managing stock and maintaining kitchen standards
- Positive attitude and willingness to help grow the business
- Flexible approach and strong work ethic
What We Offer
- Competitive pay depending on experience
- Opportunity to have real input into menus and kitchen direction
- Supportive and relaxed working environment
- A chance to grow with the business as it develops
- Staff meals and good coffee included
If you’re looking for a role where you can genuinely make an impact and help shape a growing brunch restaurant, we would love to hear from you.
- Experience
- Required
- Languages
- English – Advanced
- Employment
- Full-time
- Salary
- £20 – £25 hourly
- Benefits
- Share of tips, free food, discounted food
- Starting time
- Immediate start!
5 Market Pavement, SS14 1DD, Basildon
Cafe • 1-10 Employees
Hiring on JOB TODAY since June, 2026
A family run brunch spot based in the heart of Basildon
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