Commis Chef Jobs in Gateshead NE8 | Immediate Start & Competitive Pay
Are you a passionate and dedicated Commis Chef looking for your next opportunity in the vibrant Gateshead area? Catering Jobs is actively recruiting for an experienced Commis Chef for an immediate temporary-to-permanent placement in Gateshead NE8. This role offers an ASAP start, a competitive pay rate, and the potential for ongoing work with a prestigious local employer. Whether you're seeking flexible shifts, a stepping stone to a Sous Chef position, or a stable career in a professional kitchen, this is your chance to join a dynamic team.
ASAP Start • Gateshead NE8 • Weekly Pay
Commis Chef Job Description: Gateshead NE8
We are partnering with a well-respected catering and hospitality provider in the heart of Gateshead to find a talented and motivated Commis Chef. This employer operates across high-end corporate events, premium hotel dining, and bespoke functions, requiring a kitchen team that excels under pressure and delivers exceptional culinary standards.
This is a foundational role perfect for someone committed to honing their craft. You will work directly under an experienced Sous Chef and Head Chef, gaining invaluable experience in a fast-paced, professional environment. The role is ideal for candidates who have completed culinary college or have 1-2 years of kitchen experience and are ready to take the next step in their career. For those seeking variety, we also have urgent short-term catering jobs in other regions that offer diverse experiences.
At a Glance
- Role: Commis Chef (Junior Chef de Partie level)
- Environment: Busy hotel/event kitchen
- Shifts: Flexible, including evenings & weekends
- Career Path: Clear progression to Chef de Partie
Key Commis Chef Responsibilities
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1Mise en Place & Preparation: Execute all preparatory tasks to the highest standard, including washing, peeling, chopping, and portioning ingredients. Ensure your section is fully stocked and organised for service, supporting the smooth running of the kitchen.
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2Food Production & Cooking: Assist in the cooking and presentation of dishes according to precise recipes and specifications set by the Sous Chef. Learn to manage timing and quality across multiple orders during peak service periods.
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3Kitchen Hygiene & Safety: Maintain impeccable cleanliness and sanitation in your work area. Adhere strictly to all HACCP and Food Safety regulations, including correct labelling, storage, and temperature control.
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4Team Support & Communication: Work collaboratively with other Commis Chefs, Kitchen Porters, and senior chefs. Communicate effectively about stock levels, potential delays, and any issues that arise during service.
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5Stock Control & Waste Management: Assist with receiving deliveries, rotating stock (FIFO), and minimising waste. Report any shortages or equipment faults to the senior chef on duty promptly.
Candidate Requirements & Skills
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AFormal Experience: A minimum of 6-12 months experience in a professional kitchen as a Commis Chef, Kitchen Porter with ambition, or a relevant culinary qualification (NVQ Level 2 or equivalent). A proven passion for food and hospitality is essential.
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BTechnical Skills & Knowledge: Foundational knife skills and knowledge of basic cooking techniques. A solid understanding of food hygiene and safety standards (a valid Food Hygiene Certificate is a strong advantage).
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CPersonal Attributes: A positive, can-do attitude, resilience under pressure, and a keen willingness to learn. You must be reliable, punctual, and have a strong sense of teamwork, understanding how your role supports the entire kitchen brigade.
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DLogistics: The ability to commute reliably to Gateshead NE8 for shifts that may include early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and bank holidays. A professional appearance and adherence to kitchen uniform standards are required.
Note: Don't meet every single requirement? We value potential and attitude. If you have transferable skills from a warehouse or other fast-paced environment and a genuine desire to build a career as a Commis Chef, we encourage you to apply and discuss your situation with our consultants.
Salary, Benefits & Career Progression
Competitive Compensation
Earn a competitive hourly rate of £11.50 - £13.50, paid weekly. Overtime may be available at enhanced rates. Pay is reflective of your experience and performance, with reviews for those transitioning to permanent roles.
Workplace Benefits
Enjoy free meals on shift, access to a modern, well-equipped kitchen, and a supportive team environment. For permanent staff, benefits may include pension schemes, holiday pay, and potential staff discounts.
Career Development
This role is a proven pathway to Sous Chef and Head Chef positions. Receive ongoing training and mentorship. Success here could lead to opportunities in other prestigious venues we recruit for, such as those listed in our Premier Hospitality Jobs portfolio.
Why Register with Catering Jobs in Gateshead?
As a leading catering staff agency with deep roots in the North East, Catering Jobs specialises in connecting talented hospitality professionals with the region's best employers. We understand the local market in Gateshead, Newcastle, and across Tyne and Wear.
- Local Expertise: We know the Gateshead NE8 hospitality scene inside out.
- Dedicated Consultant: A single point of contact who fights your corner.
- Flexible Opportunities: From temp shifts to temp-to-perm and permanent management roles.
How Our Agency Works for You
How to Apply for This Commis Chef Position
The application process for this immediate-start role in Gateshead is straightforward and designed to get you into work quickly.
Step 1: Prepare Your CV
Ensure your CV is up-to-date, highlighting any kitchen experience, qualifications, and references. Tailor it to emphasise skills relevant to a Commis Chef or Kitchen Porter role.
Step 2: Get in Touch
You can apply directly via the button on this page, which will take you to our secure application portal. For a faster response, you can also call or email our dedicated hospitality team using the details below.
Step 3: Interview & Start
Successful applicants will be invited for a brief interview with a Catering Jobs consultant, followed by an interview with the client in Gateshead. The goal is to have you starting your first shift within days.
Ready to Start Your Commis Chef Career in Gateshead?
This role is interviewing now and will not be available for long. Don't miss this opportunity to join a professional kitchen and develop your skills.
If you are interested email your cv and info to [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions: Commis Chef Jobs
What exactly does a Commis Chef do day-to-day?
A typical day starts with mise en place – preparing all ingredients for service. During service, you'll assist a section chef (e.g., larder, sauce) by cooking components, plating dishes, and maintaining cleanliness. Post-service, you'll clean down your section, restock, and prepare for the next shift. It's a role focused on learning, precision, and supporting the kitchen team's flow. For a broader look at kitchen hierarchies, explore our Chef roles page.
I have Kitchen Porter experience. Can I apply for this Commis Chef role?
Absolutely. Experience as a Kitchen Porter is highly valuable. It shows you understand the pace, hygiene standards, and teamwork of a professional kitchen. Employers often look for Porters with the right attitude and willingness to learn to step up into a Commis Chef role. In your application, highlight any food prep tasks you undertook, your reliability, and your eagerness to develop culinary skills. We actively help candidates make this transition.
What are the typical shift patterns for a Commis Chef in Gateshead?
Shifts vary by employer but commonly include split shifts (e.g., 7 am - 11 am and 5 pm - 10 pm) for hotel breakfast and dinner service, or straight shifts for event catering. Evenings, weekends, and bank holidays are standard in hospitality. This specific role in Gateshead NE8 offers flexible shift patterns, which we can discuss in detail during registration. We also list roles with specific patterns, like those for event catering staff.
Does Catering Jobs offer other types of work besides Commis Chef roles?
Yes, we are a full-service catering recruitment agency. We recruit for all levels of hospitality, from Kitchen Porters and Waiting Staff to Sous Chefs, General Managers, and specialist event roles. We also cover commercial driving, warehouse, and other temporary sectors. Browse our latest jobs board to see the full range of opportunities across the UK.
Other Immediate-Start Hospitality Roles in the North East
Not quite the right fit? Explore these other urgent vacancies we're recruiting for in and around Gateshead.
| Job Title | Location | Pay Rate | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sous Chef | Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 | £14.50 - £16.50 p/h | Apply |
| Experienced Kitchen Porter | Gateshead NE11 | £12.75 - £13.50 p/h | Apply |
| Breakfast Chef | Sunderland SR1 | £12.50 - £13.50 p/h | Apply |
| Pastry Commis Chef | Durham DH1 | £12.50 - £13.75 p/h | Apply |
| Hotel Demi Chef de Partie | Newcastle Quayside | £13.00 - £14.50 p/h | Apply |
Pay rates are indicative and subject to experience and specific shift patterns. All roles offer weekly pay.
Get in Touch with Catering Jobs Today
Your next career move starts with a conversation. Contact our Gateshead and North East hospitality recruitment team.
Contact Details
Phone: +44 (0)203 086 9080
Email: [email protected]
Lines are open Monday-Friday, 8 am - 6 pm. For out-of-hours enquiries, please email and we'll respond first thing.
Visit Our Hub
For more advice on navigating temporary work, read our comprehensive Guide to Temporary Agency Work. To see all live vacancies across the UK, visit our main Catering Jobs portal.
Catering Jobs is an equal opportunities employer and recruitment agency. © 2024 Catering Jobs. All rights reserved. Registered in England.
A Day in the Life: Inside a Gateshead Kitchen
To give you a true sense of this role, let's walk through a typical lunch service shift for a Commis Chef at this high-volume Gateshead venue. Understanding the rhythm and demands will help you visualize your potential new workplace and prepare for success.
Pre-Service (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
The shift begins not with cooking, but with organization and precision. You'll receive a briefing from the Sous Chef, review the function sheets or à la carte menu for the day, and begin your mise en place.
- Dice 10kg of onions for sauces and garnishes.
- Portion and wrap 150 chicken breasts.
- Prepare all cold larder components for starters and salads.
This period is crucial. A well-prepared station is the foundation of a smooth service.
Peak Service (12:00 PM - 2:30 PM)
The pass lights up with tickets. The atmosphere is focused and energetic. As the Commis Chef on the sauce section, your responsibilities ramp up.
- Sear proteins to order as called by the Chef de Partie.
- Plate dishes with precise sauce application and garnish.
- Constantly communicate: “Two chicken supreme away!” “Fire another salmon!”
This is where speed, accuracy, and calmness under pressure are tested and developed.
Post-Service & Development (3:00 PM - 4:30 PM)
Once the last ticket is served, the focus shifts to reset and learning. The kitchen remains a place of growth even after service ends.
- Deep clean your section, following sanitation checklists.
- Assist the Sous Chef in prepping components for tomorrow's special.
- Receive feedback on your performance and techniques used during service.
This dedicated time for cleaning and mentorship is what separates a good kitchen from a great one.
“The best Commis Chefs we see are the ones who treat every task, from chopping parsley to cleaning the fryer, with the same level of importance. It’s that attention to detail that gets you noticed and promoted.” – Head Chef, Gateshead Client
Why Gateshead NE8 is a Hotspot for Chef Careers
Choosing to build your culinary career in Gateshead isn't just about this specific job; it's about positioning yourself in a thriving and diverse hospitality region. The NE8 postcode and surrounding areas offer unique advantages for ambitious Commis Chefs.
A Hub of Diverse Venues
Gateshead is home to a remarkable mix of establishments. You could gain experience in:
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ALarge-Scale Event Catering: The Sage Gateshead and the Utilita Arena host concerts, conferences, and galas, requiring bulk production and impeccable timing.
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BBoutique Hotel Dining: Intimate restaurants within hotels focusing on seasonal, à la carte fine dining and afternoon tea service.
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CCorporate Hospitality: Many businesses in the Quayside and business parks host client lunches and events, offering a more Monday-Friday oriented schedule.
This variety means a Commis Chef in Gateshead can build a uniquely well-rounded CV without leaving the area.
Proximity to Supplier Innovation
The North East is rich with local producers. Working in a Gateshead kitchen often means closer access to:
- Fresh seafood from North Shields Fish Quay.
- Seasonal produce from the Northumberland countryside.
- Artisan cheeses and baked goods from local independents.
As a Commis Chef, you'll learn about seasonality and provenance firsthand, a knowledge base that is highly valued as you progress to Chef de Partie and beyond.
Local Insight: The regeneration of the Gateshead Quayside with new cultural attractions is driving increased investment in hospitality, leading to more job openings and career stability for skilled chefs in the area.
Essential Soft Skills for a Successful Commis Chef
While knife skills and food safety are critical, the chefs who rise fastest often master a set of less tangible, yet equally vital, soft skills. Here’s what senior chefs in Gateshead kitchens specifically look for.
Situational Awareness
Anticipating needs before being asked. Noticing when the fryer oil needs changing, when the pastry chef is running low on cream, or when a bin needs emptying. This proactive mindset keeps the entire kitchen flowing.
Brigade Mentality
Understanding you are one part of a machine. It’s not “my section” but “our service.” Helping a struggling colleague during a rush without being asked is the hallmark of a true team player destined for promotion.
Process Efficiency
Finding smarter, faster ways to complete prep tasks without compromising quality. Can you chiffonade herbs more quickly? Organize your cooler for faster access? This operational intelligence is highly valued by management.
Constructive Feedback Response
How you respond to criticism defines your growth curve. The best Commis Chefs listen, ask clarifying questions (“Should I sear it hotter next time, Chef?”), and immediately apply the feedback. They see correction as investment, not reprimand.
Developing these skills in this Gateshead Commis Chef role will make you a standout candidate not just for internal promotion, but for any future role you apply for in the competitive North East culinary scene.
