Are you seeking a career in the flourishing catering business in the UK because you have a strong passion for food and hospitality? It’s a great time to look into the newest job openings in this industry because there is a growing need for qualified caterers. Our guide will walk you through the top catering firms that are hiring right now, the best places to find jobs, and the necessary skills and credentials to thrive in every role—from entry-level to senior.
Regardless of your background in cooking, experience as a chef, or passion for hospitality, this post will provide you the most recent information about catering jobs available in the UK. We’ll go into the employment market right now and showcase the top catering firms that are recruiting right now, including Sodexo, Compass Group, and Aramark. In addition, we’ll look at the top locations for catering jobs, such as Edinburgh, Manchester, and London, and offer details on typical pay scales, working conditions, and industry development potential.
We’ll also go over the necessary training and credentials needed to land a cooking career in the UK in this post. The essential prerequisites for various professions and degrees of responsibility will be covered, ranging from fundamental food hygiene credentials to advanced culinary skills. Our book will provide you the knowledge and tools you need to thrive in the dynamic catering sector in the UK, whether you’re trying to launch a career or advance your abilities.
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Top catering companies in the UK currently hiring
Here are some top catering companies in the UK currently hiring:
1. Sodexo:
Sodexo is a global leader in quality of life services, offering catering, facilities management, and other services. They frequently have openings for various catering positions across the UK
2. Compass Group:
One of the largest catering companies globally, Compass Group provides food services in various sectors including education, healthcare, and corporate dining. They often have a range of catering job opportunities available
3. Aramark:
Aramark provides food services, facilities management, and uniform services. They have numerous job openings for catering and hospitality roles throughout the UK
4. Elior UK:
Elior UK is a leading contract caterer, offering food services to various sectors such as business and industry, education, and healthcare. They are regularly hiring for catering roles across the country
5. BaxterStorey:
Specializing in workplace catering, BaxterStorey is known for its fresh food and quality service. They have multiple job openings for catering professionals
Current catering job opportunities available
Here are some of the current catering job opportunities available in the United Kingdom in 2024:
- Trainee Pizza Chef at PizzaExpress Restaurants Ltd, South Bank, London. This is a permanent, full-time position with a salary ranging from £11.44 to £13.31 per hour
- Kitchen Assistant at Kingsley Healthcare, Lowestoft, Suffolk. This contract, part-time role offers £12 per hour
- Chef at Kingsley Healthcare, Eye, Suffolk. This permanent, part-time position pays £14 per hour
- Catering Assistant at NHS Property, Market Harborough. This part-time role pays £11.45 per hour
- Chef de Partie at Berkley Care Group, Oxford. This full-time role involves 10-hour shifts from 8 am to 6 pm
- Catering Supervisor at The Deaf Academy, Exmouth. This position involves the day-to-day supervision of the catering team
- Hospitality and Catering Assistant (casual) at Derby City Council. This role offers flexible hours, both daytime and evening shifts.
Qualifications and skills needed
To secure a catering job in the United Kingdom, specific qualifications and skills are generally required, varying based on the role and level of responsibility. Here are some common qualifications and skills needed for different types of catering positions:
1. Entry-Level Positions (e.g., Kitchen Assistant, Catering Assistant)
Basic Food Hygiene Certificate:
- Essential for anyone handling food to ensure they understand food safety practices.
Experience:
- While not always required, previous experience in a kitchen or food service environment can be advantageous.
Skills:
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to follow instructions and work under supervision.
- Basic numeracy and literacy skills for tasks like measuring ingredients and reading recipes.
2. Intermediate Positions (e.g., Chef de Partie, Cook)
Professional Cooking Qualifications:
- NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery.
- City & Guilds diplomas in professional cookery.
Experience:
- A few years of experience working in a professional kitchen.
- Experience with different types of cuisines and kitchen equipment.
Skills:
- Strong culinary skills and creativity.
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage time effectively.
3. Advanced Positions (e.g., Head Chef, Catering Manager)
Higher Professional Qualifications:
- NVQ/SVQ Level 4 in Management or Hospitality Management.
- Advanced diplomas in culinary arts or hospitality management.
Extensive Experience:
- Significant experience in various kitchen roles, including supervisory or managerial positions.
- Proven track record of managing kitchen operations or catering events.
Skills:
- Leadership and management skills.
- Budgeting and financial management.
- Menu planning and development.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
4. Specialized Positions (e.g., Pastry Chef, Dietitian Chef)
Specific Qualifications:
- Specialized diplomas or certificates in areas like pastry arts, nutrition, or dietetics.
Relevant Experience:
- Experience in specialized fields such as patisserie, dietary catering, or large-scale event catering.
Skills:
- In-depth knowledge of specialized techniques and ingredients.
- Creativity and innovation in recipe development.
5. General Requirements
Soft Skills:
- Attention to detail.
- Customer service skills.
- Flexibility and adaptability.
Legal Requirements:
- Right to work in the UK.
- A clear DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check for roles involving work with vulnerable groups.
6. Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
Workshops and Short Courses:
- Regular attendance at food safety and hygiene workshops.
- Participation in culinary arts short courses to stay updated with industry trends.
Professional Memberships:
- Membership in professional bodies like the Institute of Hospitality or the Craft Guild of Chefs.
Best cities in the UK for catering job opportunities in 2024
Here are some of the best cities in the UK for catering job opportunities in 2024:
- London: As the capital city, London has a vibrant hospitality sector with numerous hotels, restaurants, and catering companies offering a wide range of job opportunities.
- Manchester: Known for its thriving food scene, Manchester has many catering companies and events that require skilled catering staff.
- Birmingham: Birmingham’s diverse culinary landscape and frequent large-scale events create a steady demand for catering professionals.
- Edinburgh: With its rich cultural heritage and tourism, Edinburgh offers many catering opportunities, especially during festivals and major events.
- Glasgow: Glasgow has a robust hospitality industry, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and catering services regularly hiring staff.
- Leeds: Leeds has a growing food and drink industry, with many new restaurants and catering businesses emerging, creating numerous job opportunities.
- Bristol: Bristol’s dynamic food scene and frequent festivals make it an excellent city for catering jobs.
- Liverpool: Known for its vibrant nightlife and events, Liverpool provides many opportunities in the catering sector.
- Brighton: With its seaside charm and numerous events, Brighton has a strong demand for catering professionals.
- Cardiff: As the capital of Wales, Cardiff hosts many events and has a diverse food scene, offering various catering job opportunities.
These cities are known for their active hospitality industries and frequent events, which drive the demand for catering services.
FAQs
What is the average salary for catering jobs in the UK
The average salary for catering jobs in the UK varies depending on the specific role and level of experience. As of 2024:
- Entry-level catering assistants typically earn between £18,000 and £22,000 per year.
- Experienced chefs and kitchen managers can earn between £25,000 and £35,000 per year.
- Senior roles, such as executive chefs and catering managers, can earn upwards of £40,000 per year.
How competitive are catering jobs in the UK in 2024?
Jobs in catering are quite competitive in the UK in 2024. The growing need for catering services at events, business gatherings, and private parties has led to industry expansion. Even if there are many chances, particularly in larger cities, individuals with the necessary experience and abilities have a higher chance of landing coveted jobs.
What are the working conditions for employment in catering in the United Kingdom in 2024?
Working conditions for catering jobs in the UK in 2024 can vary:
- Hours: Catering staff often work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the nature of the events they cater.
- Environment: The work can be physically demanding, involving long periods of standing, lifting heavy equipment, and working in hot kitchen environments.
- Pace: Catering jobs are typically fast-paced, especially during peak times and large events.
What kind of experience is needed in the UK in 2024 to land a high-paying catering job?
For high-paying catering jobs in the UK in 2024, the following experience and qualifications are often required:
- Professional Training: Culinary qualifications from reputable institutions can be crucial for high-level positions.
- Experience: Several years of experience in the catering or hospitality industry, particularly in roles of increasing responsibility.
- Specialization: Expertise in a specific type of cuisine or catering style can be an advantage.
- Management Skills: For senior roles, experience in managing staff, budgets, and operations is essential.
- Creativity and Innovation: High-paying roles often require the ability to create unique menus and innovate in food presentation.
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