The University of Edinburgh
Commis Chef
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Commis Chef
Commis Chef | University of Edinburgh Conference & Events Catering Department
Job Code & Compensation
UE02: £24,547 per annum plus 15% Premium Band for flexible working
Location: Pollock Halls Agriculture Building, Dairsie Road, Edinburgh Post Type: Full-time (35 hours per week), 5 over 7 days including weekends Contract: Permanent, open-ended Vacancies: 1
About the Opportunity
Be part of something bigger. Join the University of Edinburgh’s thriving CSG (Conference & Student [S]ervices Group)—Accommodation, Catering and Events department—where your work makes a true impact. Here, you’ll contribute to enriching student life, enhancing local communities, and driving meaningful innovation.
The Role
You’ll join the high-impact Conference & Events Catering Department, based at Pollock Halls South Hall Kitchen. We cater to a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings and private dinners to large-scale, high-profile conferences. We also operate an extensive Outside and Delivered Hospitality service, supplying premium food to 180+ university buildings and corporate/private venues across Edinburgh.
Our Mission & Values
"To enrich student learning and growth as well as impact our local communities."
If you embody these values, you could be a fantastic fit:
- Are you PASSIONATE about making a difference?
- Do you love COLLABORATING and thriving as part of a team?
- Does INCLUSION shape everything you do?
- Can you take OWNERSHIP and rise to challenges?
- Are you inspired by INNOVATION and eager to bring creative ideas to life?
The Team
Adding to our global identity as a world-leading research-intensive university, our team supports over 10,000 students and staff through:
- 24/7 catered and self-catered residential accommodation and community services (under Residence Life).
- 17+ cafés and hospitality venues on campus.
- The University of Edinburgh Hospitality and Events Collection, serving 200,000+ guests annually not just students, but staff, professors, and external clients.
- Major restaurant brands, including East erklär, Alan Parkinson Café, and others.
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About The University
We’re driven by a values-led approach to tackling the world’s biggest challenges by 2030. Prospective employees bring humanity to pioneering research, and our global partnerships ensure impactful innovation.
Join a university that values diversity, actively promotes inclusion, and is committed to exceptional student experiences—while adding to our rich history and thriving future.
Why Join Us?
Core Benefits
- Competitive salary + 15% premium for flexibility.
- A positive, creative, and rewarding workspace with growth opportunities.
- Tier-one support and resources tailored to your needs.
- Established career progression in a world-class sector.
- Alliance with innovative teams focused on research, community building, and event management.
Key Responsibilities
(Success requirements, tasks/involvements) As a Commis Chef, your role is foundational—and vital—to creating high-quality meals for events and hospitality services.
- Preparing ingredients under direction of a Head Chef/Senior Chef.
- Executing standard recipes to ensure delivery of consistent, premium culinary standards.
- Assisting during high-volume buffets, private dinners, and business events.
- Refining time management to meet deadlines with efficiency.
- Maintaining a clean and organized kitchen and adhering to food safety standards.
- Participating in inventory management and cost-efficiency practices.
- Promoting a culture where teamwork, respect, and guest satisfaction are prioritized.
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Requirements
Essential
- A strong passion for hospitality, catering, or fine dining.
- 1+ year’s experience as a Commis Chef or equivalent role.
- Proven ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environments.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Willingness to learn and embrace receive training and consistent upskilling.
- Compliance with UK right-to-work requirements (international applicants must hold legal work permits for this role).
Desirable
- Any additional certifications (e.g., food hygiene, basic knife skills training).
- Interest relating to working with large-scale provider catering in academic or research settings.
- Previous experience in event catering (though not mandatory, this can be advantageous).
Our Commitments
- Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion: We proudly hold a Silver Athena SWAN award, are a Stone Wall Proud Employer, and are a signatory of the Race Equality Charter.
- Well-being & support: To maintain a vibrant work environment, we offer:
- Generous annual leave and flexible hours where possible.
- A defined benefits pension scheme and staff discounts.
- Family-friendly policies and remote work options for eligible roles.
- Flexibility: Our benefits are tailored to balance work-life harmony.
How to Apply
Please submit the following:
- CV
- Cover letter explaining your alignment with the role and university values.
Closing date: 24 June 2026, at 11:59pm (UK).
Interviews: Scheduled 2 weeks after the closing date.
Note: Some flexibility may apply due to exceptional circumstances.
Take the next step in your career by applying to help the University of Edinburgh foster impactful change. Together, we create together. #JoinUs
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