About the Role

We are recruiting a Temp Head Chef to join a busy casual dining venue in York. This is a temporary position paying £19.61 per hour. The role is ideal for an experienced Head Chef seeking varied shifts, responsibility for kitchen leadership, and the opportunity to deliver consistently high standards in a friendly, fast‑paced casual dining environment.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a Temp Head Chef, you will oversee all kitchen operations during your shift, lead the team through service, and ensure the consistent delivery of menu dishes. Key responsibilities include:

• Managing day‑to‑day kitchen operations, including supervising service, delegating tasks, and maintaining timing across sections.

• Preparing, cooking, and presenting menu items to the venue’s quality, portion, and presentation standards.

• Providing clear leadership and direction to Sous Chefs, Chefs de Partie, and junior kitchen staff to maintain a positive, efficient working environment.

• Overseeing stock control, receiving deliveries, monitoring wastage, and supporting ordering processes to control food costs.

• Ensuring full compliance with food hygiene, health and safety, and allergen procedures at all times.

• Contributing to menu execution, portion consistency, and assisting with any menu development or special events as required.

Role Expectations

• Lead by example to deliver consistently executed dishes and maintain high standards across all sections.

• Provide mentorship and support to the kitchen team, fostering a professional, collaborative culture.

• Be flexible with shift patterns including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and bank holidays as required by the business.

• Follow established recipes, presentation guidelines, portion control, and allergen labelling to ensure guest satisfaction and safety.

• Manage rota requirements and communicate clearly with the venue and agency about availability and cover needs.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or senior kitchen manager within a casual dining, pub, or restaurant environment.

• Level 2 Food Hygiene and Allergen Awareness (or equivalent) preferred.

• Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills with the ability to adapt quickly to different teams and service styles.

• Experience of stock control, basic ordering, and cost‑aware kitchen management.

• Reliable, punctual, and able to maintain standards under pressure during busy service periods.

• A professional, team‑focused attitude and willingness to support the wider business needs.

Why Join Us

We are committed to supporting our temporary Head Chefs with clear communication, prompt pay, and ongoing assistance from our office team. Benefits of this role include:

• Competitive hourly pay of £19.61ph.

• Varied shifts and the chance to work in a popular casual dining venue in York.

• Supportive team culture and opportunities for further temporary or permanent placements.

• Access to industry guidance and professional support from a team with hospitality experience.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced Head Chef available for temporary work in York and meet the requirements above, please submit your CV and availability details. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.