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Chef

Do you want to become a Chef? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Chefs use their creativity and love of food to create delicious dishes. They work in the kitchen of a restaurant or in outside catering.

Chefs may start as commis chefs (junior or apprentice chefs). They learn about each of the different sections of the kitchen, how to make sauces and desserts, and how to cook meat and fish. They also learn how to use kitchen equipment safely.

• Chefs de partie run a section of the kitchen, such as sauces or pastries, or dealing with a range of dishes from the menu, such as all the cold dishes.
• Head chefs are in charge of the whole kitchen, the quality of the food and the teams of chefs. They plan the menus, order supplies of ingredients, manage the budget, and keep the kitchen running efficiently.

Food hygiene and health and safety are an essential part of a chef's job.

Chefs almost always work shifts and may have to put in overtime during busy periods. Most chefs have to work late into the evening and during weekends and bank holidays. Part-time, casual or seasonal work may be available at special events.

Large, busy kitchens are hot, steamy, noisy and hectic places, and chefs are on their feet in the kitchen for most of the time.

Salaries for chefs range from around £8,000 up to £50,000, or more.

Chefs need to:

• enjoy cooking
• stay calm under pressure and cope with several tasks at once
• work as part of a team
• have a real interest in food.

Each year, there are around 30,000 vacancies for chefs in Britain, and this number is thought to be rising. There are many opportunities to train and work in hotels, restaurants and bars.

Many employers offer Apprenticeships or placements with a structured training programme. There is a huge range of courses in various aspects of food preparation, including City & Guilds, NVQs/SVQs, HNCs and HNDs. It is possible to train as a chef at any age.

Large restaurants, hotels and catering services may offer training, usually as a combination of on-the-job experience and college studies.

In larger organisations, there may be opportunities to progress to head chef.

Experienced chefs may move into related jobs, such as managing the food and drinks side of a hotel business, running their own restaurant or pub, or managing a contract catering business.

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