Commis Chef - Staff Dining


Company:	House of Lords
Salary:	£28,700 - £31,580
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Westminster, SW1A 0PW
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	24 Aug 2026
Closing date:	7 Sept 2026

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Summary

Commis Chef - Staff Dining

House of Lords - Catering and Retail Services

BELONG HERE. TOGETHER, WE MAKE PARLIAMENT HAPPEN.

As a Commis Chef, you'll play an important role in supporting the UK's parliamentary democracy. Your work will help Members carry out their responsibilities effectively - contributing to something bigger than any one role.

You'll be part of a collaborative community, working alongside colleagues from a wide range of professions. Together, we make Parliament happen.

You'll be based on the Parliamentary Estate in Westminster - a unique working environment shaped by history and powered by the people who work here today.

You'll support the kitchen team in the preparation, cooking and service of food within the Staff Dining operation.

Working under the guidance of Chef de Parties and Sous Chefs, you will develop your culinary skills whilst contributing to the efficient delivery of breakfast and lunch services. You will assist with food preparation, food service, stock rotation, food safety compliance and maintaining a clean and organised kitchen environment.

This is an excellent opportunity to develop a career within a professional Business & Industry (B&I) catering environment, supporting the delivery of fresh, nutritious and high-quality meals for Members, House staff, contractors and visitors.

Working alongside experienced chefs and catering professionals, you will gain hands-on experience in food preparation, service delivery, food safety, stock management and kitchen operations within one of the UK's most prestigious institutions.

What you'll be doing

In this role, you'll:

Support the preparation and cooking of food for breakfast and lunch services, helping to deliver a high-quality dining experience.

Assist with food preparation and mise en place across a range of kitchen sections to ensure smooth and efficient service.

Contribute to the preparation of fresh salads, sandwiches, hot dishes, desserts, and grab-and-go items.

Learn and apply recipes, portion controls, and menu specifications, developing confidence and technical skills along the way.

Help ensure food is prepared, replenished, and presented to agreed standards throughout service periods.

Assist in creating attractive food displays and well-presented service counters.

Take pride in maintaining consistency in food quality, flavour, presentation, and portion control.

Provide support to chefs and colleagues during busy service periods, contributing to a positive and well-organised kitchen environment.

Assist with the preparation and delivery of hospitality functions, special events, and themed food promotions as required.

What we're looking for

We're looking for someone who can bring their skills and experience to make a meaningful contribution here.

You'll have:

Some experience of working in a kitchen, catering, hospitality, or Business & Industry (B&I) catering environment, although we welcome individuals who are keen to build on their existing skills and experience.

A basic understanding of food hygiene, food safety, and allergen awareness, together with a commitment to maintaining high standards.

Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive and effective working relationships with colleagues and customers.

A collaborative approach, with a willingness to support team members and contribute to a shared goal, particularly during busy service periods.

Good organisational skills and attention to detail, helping to ensure work is completed accurately and efficiently.

The ability to work calmly and effectively in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality and service standards.

A positive, dependable, and professional attitude, with a willingness to take responsibility for your work and contribute to a supportive team culture.

A recognised culinary qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 1 or Level 2 in Professional Cookery, or equivalent).

It would be even better if you have (or are willing to learn):

Experience working in high-volume catering operations.

Interest in healthy eating, sustainability and seasonal food.

For full details, please see the job description.

What you'll get in return

Working at the House of Lords means joining a community that values your wellbeing, growth and contribution.

You'll benefit from:

30 days annual leave (rising to 35 after one year).

Generous Civil Service pension scheme.

A comprehensive Parliamentary health and wellbeing programme.

Access to a wide range of learning and development opportunities across diverse professions.

The chance to witness democracy in action and work in a place of historic national significance.

The work we do is vital to the House of Lords - the second chamber of the UK Parliament. It plays a critical role in making laws, scrutinising government, and providing independent expertise on national issues.

Ready to apply?

If you're looking for an employer where you can belong, grow and thrive, we'd love to hear from you.

Please complete your online application by 23:59 on Monday 7

th September 2026.

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