What should I include about my kitchen environment 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 describe your kitchen's environment. This includes the type of restaurant, the culinary style, and what it's like to work in your kitchen. This helps potential candidates understand if they'll fit well with your team and operations.

Common misunderstanding: A general description of the kitchen environment is enough.

It's not just about stating that the kitchen is 'busy' or 'professional'. You need to provide specific details like whether it's a high-pressure gourmet restaurant or a relaxed family-style diner. This helps candidates gauge if they can thrive in your specific setting.

Common misunderstanding: The kitchen environment doesn't significantly impact a chef's decision to apply.

The kitchen environment greatly influences a chef's decision to apply for a job. Chefs look for places where they can fit in and excel, so detailed descriptions about the pace, team dynamics, and culinary style are crucial.

How can I effectively convey my restaurant’s dining style and culinary approach?

To effectively convey your restaurant's dining style and culinary approach in a job description, start by clearly labeling the type of dining experience you offer, such as fine dining, casual bistro, or fast food. Then, describe the culinary style, whether it's traditional, fusion, or experimental, and mention any special focuses like farm-to-table or locally sourced ingredients.

Common misunderstanding: Detailed descriptions of dining style and culinary approach are not necessary for a job description.

On the contrary, detailed descriptions help attract candidates who are passionate about your type of cuisine and service style, which can lead to better job satisfaction and performance.

Common misunderstanding: All chefs will adapt to any dining style or culinary approach.

While many chefs are adaptable, they often prefer to work in environments that align with their expertise and interests. Clearly communicating your restaurant's style helps attract chefs who are more likely to be a good fit and stay long term.

What unique aspects of my kitchen should I highlight to potential Commis Chefs?

Highlight aspects of your kitchen that make it a unique and appealing place to work. This could include your commitment to sustainability, opportunities for creativity and innovation, or a strong team-oriented culture. Mention any special equipment or techniques used in your kitchen that could attract chefs looking for specific experiences.

Common misunderstanding: Unique aspects of the kitchen are not a priority for potential hires.

Many chefs are looking for roles that offer more than just basic job requirements. They are often attracted to positions that provide unique learning opportunities or align with their personal values, such as sustainability or innovation.

Common misunderstanding: It's better to keep the job description simple and straightforward without extra details about the kitchen's unique aspects.

While clarity is important, including compelling details about what makes your kitchen special can make your job offer stand out. This can attract more skilled and enthusiastic candidates who are a better fit for your team.