Job Title: Chef
Reports to: Estate Chef, Lead Chef
Department: Leisure and Tourism
Location: Raby Castle, Park & Gardens
Hours: 40hrs – Permanent
Rate of Pay: £26,000 pa
Job Ref: VA210-2025
About Raby
Raby is thriving, family-run estate under the stewardship of the Vane family, with a rich heritage and a forward-looking vision. Steeped in history, Raby Castle is surrounded by over 200 acres of beautiful parkland in County Durham, Raby has been home to generations of the Vane family and remains a vibrant destination offering tourism, hospitality, and events throughout the year.
In addition to Raby Castle and its grounds, the estate also includes High Force Waterfall, one of England’s most spectacular natural attractions, and the High Force Hotel, which offers accommodation and dining in the heart of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The estate comprises extensive landholdings across County Durham and Shropshire, with a focus on sustainable land management and stewardship of the countryside.
About the Role
We are looking for a passionate and experienced Chef to join our culinary team at The Vinery. You will work across all sections of the kitchen under the guidance of the Kitchen Lead Chef, preparing menu items for all site locations according to Raby Estate business needs. This is a customer-facing role, requiring excellent service and teamwork.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
- Working in all sections of the kitchen under the guidance of the Kitchen Lead Chef, preparing menu items for all site locations according to the Raby Estate business needs.
- Customer facing at the servery, serve and guide team members on serving customers throughout the service.
- Help in conducting deliveries and quality checks on ingredients and finishing products to ensure consistency and excellence!
- Manage your own time and stay motivated with the ability to work quickly and efficiently.
- Ahere to production lists according to daily business and event requirements
- Supporting all food and beverage team members, achieving operational tasks.
- Ensure the cleanliness and organisation of all areas working, cleaning and sanitising work areas, utensils and equipment.
- Lead by example – comply fully with food safety and health and safety compliance procedures.
- Assist In the handling/storage of ingredients and stock checks.
- Follow recipes accurately, highlight ingredients required for ordering, allowing for effective ordering for production, adhering to allergen guidelines.
- Open and closing duties where applicable.
- Delivery of exceptional customer service ensuring that visitors receive a positive first impression and a friendly welcome.
- Be an ambassador for Raby.
- Actively engage in learning opportunities.
This list is not exhaustive, and you will be required to carry out any other reasonable tasks as required.
Requirements
- Relevant culinary qualifications such as NVQ Level 2 minimum, showcasing foundational knowledge and skills.
- Honesty and a high level of integrity.
- Systematic and cheerful approach with a ‘can do’ problem solving attitude.
- Experience in a commercial kitchen, demonstrating professional kitchen operations.
- Awareness of food safety and hygiene practices, with a willingness to learn and adhere to industry standards.
- Ability to work effectively as part of the kitchen team, demonstrating good communication skills, and collaborative spirit.
- Willingness to adapt to different tasks and schedules, responsive to changing needs in the kitchen environment.
- A kind and caring attitude towards your colleagues and customers.
- To help the business be as sustainable as possible by maximising recycling, minimising waste and always being conscious of energy consumption.
- A keen desire to develop with the team the food offering within the Vinery, showing enthusiasm for learning new techniques and recipes.
- Flexible attitude with willingness to undertake any task required.
- Effective communication and organisational skills.
What we have to Offer
- Attractive salary
- 33 days holiday, including statutory holidays
- Group Pension Scheme with a 7.7% employer contribution with the option to salary sacrifice
- Group Life Insurance
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Health Cash Plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- Buy/Sell Holiday Scheme
- Free on-site car parking
- Discounts at Raby retail and food outlets
- Discounts for stays at Raby’s High Force Hotel
- Complimentary access to Raby Castle and High Force leisure attractions
- A behind-the-scenes tour of Raby Castle
- Invitations to Raby Estate social events throughout the year
- A chance to work in one of the most unique and beautiful venues in the region.
- A role that is dynamic, engaging, and never predictable—no two days will be the same!
- A supportive and enthusiastic team that makes every workday enjoyable.
How to apply
If you feel you have the necessary skills, experience, and personality to undertake this role, please apply below.
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