Jobs

Chef de Partie

October 22, 2026

Visa sponsorship: Not available. This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. You must already have the right to work in the UK.

About the role

The University of Reading is looking for a Chef de Partie to join its catering team. This is a junior post, working alongside the Aspiring Chef team. It will help aspiring chefs build their core skills and progress within the team. It is a full-time, permanent role of 36 hours per week, with enhanced pay for hours outside the core working hours. Job reference: RRF54107.

About the kitchens

The team cooks fresh, tasty and nutritious dishes from scratch across six kitchens, with menus that change daily and follow the seasons. The University follows the 24 Principles of Menus of Change, which guide its approach to nutrition and sustainability. It is also the first European member of the Menus of Change Universities Research Collaborative.

Team structure

There are three teams of chefs, each led by a Head Chef. Together they cover the hotel, cafes, bars, event catering and large dining halls. Staff regularly move between teams, which helps their professional development.

What you need

  • City and Guilds Hospitality and Catering Level 2 (7132), or equivalent experience in a wide range of hospitality settings
  • A keen interest in food, with knowledge of food preparation and ingredients
  • An excellent customer service focus
  • The ability to stay calm under pressure
  • Knowledge of HACCP and Safer Food, Better Business

How you will be assessed

  • There is no interview in a meeting room. You will complete practical tasks in a kitchen, working alongside the chefs.
  • Wear suitable clothing and footwear and bring your own knives. The University can provide knives if you ask in advance.
  • You may use your phone to look up recipes, and written recipes may be provided.
  • The team will help you with any equipment you have not used before.

Important notes

  • There is no fixed closing date. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, and the advert closes once all positions are filled, so apply early.
  • External and internal candidates can apply. Internal candidates should speak to their line manager first, as the role can be offered as a secondment.
  • Job-share, part-time and flexible working requests are welcome and will be considered based on business needs.
  • The University is a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and welcomes applications from all communities.

How to apply

Apply online through the University of Reading website using the link on this page. For questions about the role, contact Karlene Gaskell, Executive Chef, at k.e.gaskell@reading.ac.uk.

Company: University of Reading | Location: Reading, Berkshire | City: Reading | State: Berkshire | Country: United Kingdom | Type: Full-time, Permanent | Salary: GBP 27,241 - 30,986 per year | Expires: Open until filled | Qualification: City and Guilds Level 2 Hospitality and Catering (7132) or equivalent experience | Hours: 36 hours per week | Industry: Education | Category: Hospitality | Website: https://www.reading.ac.uk | Apply: Job Search https://jobs.reading.ac.uk/ce1169li_webrecruitment/wrd/run/etrec179gf.open?wvid=9493791XsD