What preparation tasks should I include in a Commis Chef job description?

Date modified: 22nd September 2025 | This FAQ page has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email.

Commis Chef Job Description Template

This job description template provides a full working exmaple using our six step approach. Open the template in the Pilla app and customise each section to make it specific to your role and business.

We operate a professional restaurant kitchen serving 140 covers daily with emphasis on culinary education, skill development, and traditional cooking techniques. Our commis chef position provides excellent foundation training for aspiring chefs within our supportive kitchen brigade. This entry-level role focuses on fundamental cooking skills development while supporting kitchen operations through food preparation and service assistance. You'll work alongside experienced chefs learning professional techniques, kitchen organization, and culinary standards. The position offers exceptional opportunities for rapid skill development, with structured training programs and potential advancement to chef de partie, line cook, and senior kitchen positions within our culinary team.
• Assist with food preparation including ingredient prep, vegetable preparation, and basic cooking tasks under supervision • Support kitchen operations through mise en place preparation, stock preparation, and service setup • Learn and practice fundamental cooking techniques including knife skills, food handling, and basic cooking methods • Maintain kitchen cleanliness and organization following strict hygiene and sanitation procedures • Assist senior chefs with dish preparation, plating, and food presentation during service periods • Follow HACCP and food safety protocols including proper storage, temperature control, and contamination prevention • Support inventory management through stock rotation, waste monitoring, and storage organization • Learn kitchen equipment operation and maintenance including proper cleaning and basic maintenance tasks • Assist with special event preparation, catering orders, and high-volume service support as needed • Participate in training sessions covering cooking techniques, safety procedures, and professional development • Communicate effectively with kitchen team regarding tasks, timing, and learning opportunities • Support general kitchen duties including equipment cleaning, area maintenance, and operational tasks
Essential Skills: Enthusiasm for learning professional cooking with willingness to develop fundamental culinary skills; basic knife handling abilities with commitment to improving speed and precision; understanding of food safety basics and willingness to learn HACCP procedures; physical fitness for standing long periods and working in hot kitchen environment; ability to follow instructions precisely and accept constructive feedback; good communication skills for learning from experienced chefs; reliable and punctual work habits with strong attention to detail. Preferred Qualifications: Previous kitchen experience in any capacity demonstrating interest in culinary careers; culinary school enrollment or recent graduation; basic understanding of cooking principles and kitchen operations; food safety certification or willingness to obtain required training; additional language skills for diverse kitchen teams; genuine passion for food and cooking demonstrated through personal cooking experience.
This is an excellent entry-level position for people starting their culinary careers or those looking to transition into professional cooking. We welcome applications from culinary school graduates, career changers, and enthusiastic beginners who are serious about learning professional cooking. While previous kitchen experience is helpful, we're more interested in your attitude, work ethic, and genuine desire to learn. We provide structured training covering fundamental cooking techniques, kitchen safety, food preparation, and professional kitchen practices. Career development is rapid for dedicated individuals, with opportunities to advance to line cook, chef de partie, and senior positions based on skill development and performance. We support career growth through mentoring, training programs, and increasing responsibilities.
We're looking for someone with genuine passion for cooking and strong desire to learn professional culinary skills. You should be eager to take on new challenges, open to feedback and coaching, and committed to developing your abilities quickly. The ideal candidate will have positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to start at entry level while working toward career advancement. You should be patient with the learning process, able to handle constructive criticism, and enthusiastic about growing your culinary knowledge. We value curiosity, dedication, and professional attitude, seeking someone who will embrace our training opportunities while contributing positively to our supportive kitchen team environment.
Competitive starting wage of £10.50-£12.50 per hour based on experience level, with regular skills assessments and pay increases as abilities develop and responsibilities increase. Training benefits include: comprehensive culinary education through hands-on learning with experienced chefs; chef whites provided and maintained; nutritious staff meals during all shifts; 22 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays. Professional development opportunities including structured advancement pathway to senior kitchen positions, external culinary training support, and mentorship from experienced chefs. Rapid career progression available for dedicated individuals showing strong learning aptitude and professional commitment.

When detailing preparation tasks for a Commis Chef, focus on the essential activities they need to perform before the kitchen opens or during early shifts. This includes setting up kitchen stations, prepping ingredients according to recipes, and ensuring all equipment is clean and ready. These tasks are crucial for a smooth operation once service begins.

Common misunderstanding: Preparation tasks are the same across all kitchens.

Each kitchen has its unique flow and requirements. Tailor the preparation tasks to fit the specific needs and style of your kitchen, whether it's a high-end restaurant or a casual diner.

Common misunderstanding: Detailed preparation tasks are not necessary in the job description.

Clearly outlining these tasks helps potential hires understand their daily responsibilities and assess their suitability for the role. It also sets clear expectations from the start, aiding in smoother onboarding and performance.

How do I specify service responsibilities for a Commis Chef in a busy kitchen environment?

In a busy kitchen, a Commis Chef's service responsibilities should include tasks that support the flow of service and assist other chefs. Specify duties like assisting with dish plating, managing food supplies during service, and maintaining communication between different sections of the kitchen. These responsibilities ensure that the kitchen operates efficiently during peak times.

Common misunderstanding: Commis Chefs only need to focus on food preparation.

While preparation is a big part of their role, Commis Chefs also play a critical role during service, especially in busy environments. They need to be actively involved in executing tasks that support both the kitchen's and diners' needs.

Common misunderstanding: All service responsibilities can be learned on the job without prior mention.

While on-the-job learning is vital, outlining these responsibilities in the job description helps candidates come prepared and understand the pace and demands of your kitchen, leading to better performance and job satisfaction.

What post-service cleaning duties should I detail in the Commis Chef job description?

Post-service cleaning duties are essential for maintaining kitchen hygiene and readiness for the next service. Include responsibilities like cleaning and sanitising workstations and equipment, restocking ingredients, and managing kitchen waste. These tasks are crucial for ensuring that the kitchen remains organised and standards are upheld.

Common misunderstanding: Cleaning is a general task that doesn't need specification.

Specifying cleaning duties ensures that all areas of the kitchen meet health and safety standards. It also helps in distributing responsibilities clearly among staff, preventing overlaps and ensuring all necessary tasks are covered.

Common misunderstanding: Post-service tasks are less important than other duties.

Post-service duties are critical for the overall operation and safety of the kitchen. They prevent food contamination and pest problems and ensure that the kitchen is prepared for the next day's service, which is just as important as the cooking itself.