Head Chef - Tandem, Huddersfield

• Head Chef - Tandem, Huddersfield* *Salary : * £31,200 basic per annum, plus up to £2,000 OTE. *Hours : *Full-time, 37.5 hours per week *Kitchen Operating Hours : * 7am - 3pm daily *Location : * LunchBOX Café, BIGBOX Leisure Club, Tandem Industrial Estate, Wakefield Road, Huddersfield, HD5 0AL *Work location : * In person *About the Role* We’re looking for an experienced, enthusiastic and reliable Head Chef to lead the kitchen at LunchBOX Café, within BIGBOX Leisure Club. Our busy café serves fresh, delicious food in a welcoming environment.

We’re looking for someone who takes pride in every dish and can keep service running smoothly while supporting a small kitchen team. You’ll take responsibility for the daily kitchen operation, from preparing and cooking food to managing stock, maintaining food safety standards and developing new menu ideas and seasonal specials. This is a practical role where you’ll be actively involved in service, comfortable working independently and confident leading the team during busy periods.

Our kitchen operates from 7am to 3pm every day. *Key Responsibilities* * Prepare, cook and present consistently high-quality food during busy service periods. * Lead and support the kitchen team, setting clear standards for food quality, presentation and service. * Organise daily preparation and allocate tasks to keep the kitchen running efficiently. * Manage stock levels, place orders and liaise with suppliers. * Maintain effective stock rotation, control portion sizes and minimise food waste. * Monitor food costs and work with management to keep dishes commercially viable. * Develop seasonal specials and contribute fresh ideas to the menu. * Complete daily food safety records, temperature checks and opening and closing checklists accurately. * Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene and allergen awareness throughout the kitchen. * Train and support team members to build their skills and confidence. * Work closely with the café and management teams to deliver a consistent customer experience. *What We’re Looking For* * Previous experience in a busy kitchen, ideally as a Head Chef, Sous Chef or experienced cook with team leadership responsibilities. * Confidence preparing fresh food efficiently without compromising quality. * Strong organisational and time-management skills. * Experience with stock ordering, stock rotation and waste control. * A good understanding of food safety, hygiene and allergen procedures. * Confidence completing kitchen records and compliance paperwork. * A creative approach to specials and menu development. * Clear communication skills and a positive, supportive approach to colleagues. * The ability to work independently and as part of a small team. * Reliability, flexibility and pride in maintaining a well-organised kitchen. *What We Offer* * £31,200 basic annual salary, with total on-target earnings of £33,200. * A kitchen that operates from 7am–3pm daily. * Free BIGBOX gym membership. * Staff discounts on food and drinks. * Company pension. * Free on-site parking. * A friendly, supportive team environment. * The opportunity to bring your own ideas to the menu and help shape the café’s food offering.