How can I highlight growth and developmental opportunities 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 writing a job description for a Commis Chef, it's important to clearly mention the growth and development opportunities available. This not only attracts candidates who are eager to advance their careers but also sets clear expectations about the learning and progression possibilities within your kitchen. For example, you might include information about structured training programs, the chance to work with renowned chefs, or opportunities to participate in culinary competitions.

Common misunderstanding: Growth opportunities are only about promotions.

While promotions are a key aspect of career growth, development can also come from learning new skills, gaining certifications, and participating in industry events. Make sure to describe these opportunities as well, so candidates understand the full scope of development available.

Common misunderstanding: All training provided is formal and structured.

Not all learning and development need to be through formal programs. Inform candidates about on-the-job training, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to learn through daily tasks and responsibilities. This can be just as valuable as structured training.

What specific language should I use to indicate clear paths for career advancement?

To effectively communicate career advancement opportunities in a Commis Chef job description, use clear and direct language. Phrases like "clear progression paths," "opportunities for promotion to senior culinary roles," or "structured career development plans" are helpful. Specify any roles they might advance to, such as moving from Commis Chef to Sous Chef, or the typical timelines for such advancements if applicable.

Common misunderstanding: Career advancement is guaranteed.

It's crucial to communicate that while you provide the pathways and support for advancement, progression is based on performance, skill development, and business needs. This helps set realistic expectations.

Common misunderstanding: Only full-time employees have career advancement opportunities.

Make sure to mention if part-time or temporary staff also have opportunities to advance. This can widen your pool of applicants and attract those looking for flexible yet serious career opportunities.

How do I attract applicants eager for culinary skills advancement within my kitchen?

To attract applicants who are keen on developing their culinary skills, highlight the specific training and development opportunities your kitchen offers. Mention any unique culinary techniques they will learn, exposure to different cuisines, or the use of advanced kitchen technology. Also, showcasing your kitchen's commitment to continuous learning, such as regular workshops, guest chef sessions, or sponsored culinary courses, can be very appealing.

Common misunderstanding: Skills advancement is only for those who want to become chefs.

Clarify that skill development is not just for those aiming to be top chefs but is also crucial for any culinary role in enhancing efficiency, creativity, and satisfaction at work.

Common misunderstanding: Higher skills always lead to higher pay immediately.

While skill advancement can lead to better pay, it's important to communicate that pay raises are subject to overall business performance and individual contribution, not just skill level. This helps manage expectations and motivates staff to contribute meaningfully to the business.