Part Time Chef (Commis or CDP)

Shakespeare North Playhouse operates the Shakespeare North Bar & Kitchen, which covers a range of day time lunch offerings, a pre-theatre evening service and caters for the events and hires area of the organisation. We’re looking for a reliable, enthusiastic Commis Chef or Chef de Partie to join our small, friendly kitchen team on a part-time basis. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with solid foundational kitchen experience who wants flexible hours in a dynamic venue setting.

This role involves supporting the day-to-day running of the kitchen — from assisting in food preparation to maintaining high standards of cleanliness. During quieter periods, you’ll focus on prep and cleaning. In show weeks or busier times, you’ll be actively involved in service, working closely with the Head Chef and Bar & Kitchen and Events teams. 

Depending on your experience level, you may also take ownership of a specific kitchen section during service.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation and cooking of high-quality dishes
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment
• Support service during busy periods, including plating and finishing
• Follow food hygiene and safety standards (Level 2 Food Handling minimum)
• Ensure proper storage, labelling, and rotation of ingredients
• Assist with stock deliveries and inventory organisation
• Contribute to an efficient and collaborative kitchen atmosphere
• Take charge of a kitchen section if working at CDP level

Personal Specification

We’re looking for someone who is: 

• A confident and capable Commis Chef or CDP with hands-on kitchen experience 
• Able to work independently and follow direction 
• Committed to high standards of food hygiene and cleanliness 
• A good communicator who works well in a small team 
• Flexible and happy to work a mix of prep and service shifts 

Essential Requirements 

• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (or willing to obtain before starting) 
• Previous experience in a kitchen environment (commis or CDP level) 

Desirable Qualifications 

• UK Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery (or equivalent catering college training) 
• Experience working in a theatre, events venue, café, or similar environment 

Place of Work  

The primary place of work will be Shakespeare North Playhouse, located in Prescot, Knowsley.  

Given the nature of this role, it is essential that the postholder is based on-site at Shakespeare North Playhouse for all working hours.  

Reporting Relationships  

The post-holder will report to Head Chef for Shakespeare North Playhouse and will work closely with the Visitor Experience Manager: Commercial.  

Salary and Hours of work  

The rate of pay is £12.50 per hour.   

The contract is for 16 hours across the week but may vary week to week depending on the building’s schedule however, as a guide you can expect the following: 

Low Period: 

• Tuesday: 11:00–17:00  
• Thursday: 11:00–17:00  
• Saturday: 14:00–18:00 

Busy Period (e.g. show weeks): 

• Tuesday: 12:00–18:00  
• Friday: 16:00–20:00  
• Saturday: 14:00–20:00  

Please note that working patterns may be subject to change in response to the operational needs of the organisation. 

This job description is intended as a guide to the duties expected of the post-holder. These duties may be reviewed from time to time to meet the needs of the business.  

This job description is not contractual.

As a new organisation Shakespeare North Playhouse will inevitably change as we grow and develop over the coming years. Any new appointees will be required to show a flexible approach to this process – which may involve revisions around job description, titles, roles and departmental structures. 

How to Apply

If having reviewed the job description and information about the Shakespeare North Playhouse you consider yourself to be a good fit for this role, please email a CV to [email protected] and fill out the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form linked below.

The closing date for applications is Monday 1 September 2025 

Diverse representation  

We encourage and welcome applications from people whose background and experience are underrepresented in the cultural sector. We are committed to inclusive working practices and understand there may be barriers people face when considering an opportunity like this. If you are interested in applying for this role but feel there are things that may prevent you from getting involved, please get in touch and let us know how we can support you in making your application and throughout the selection process.  

Equality Monitoring  

As part of your application, please make sure to fill out the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form . The information you provide will not impact on the consideration of your application and will be used solely for the purpose of monitoring.

Data Protection  

Information provided by you as part of your application will be used in the recruitment process. Any data about you will be held securely with access restricted to those involved in dealing with your application in the recruitment process. Once the process is completed the data relating to unsuccessful applicants will be stored for a maximum of 6 months and then destroyed. If you are the successful candidate, your application will be retained and form the basis of your personnel record. By submitting your application, you are giving your consent to your data being stored and processed for the purpose of the recruitment process, equal opportunities monitoring and your personnel record if you are the successful candidate. In submitting your application, we will assume that consent by you is given. We refer you to Shakespeare North’s job applicant privacy notice which you should read before applying for this role.  

If you have any questions or would like to have an informal conversation about the role before applying, please contact us via email at [email protected]