Job Opportunities At Our Zoo
Senior Cook
Full Time | £27,000 p/a
We are seeking a passionate, reliable, and experienced Senior Cook to join our friendly and dedicated catering team in the heart of our busy wildlife park café. This is a fantastic opportunity for a talented cook to take on a leadership role in a unique and vibrant setting, where no two days are the same.
You will play a key role in delivering delicious, freshly prepared meals and snacks to our wide range of customers – from families and school groups to park staff and volunteers. This role requires someone who is confident working in a high-volume, fast-paced environment while maintaining excellent standards of food quality, hygiene, and customer service.
As Senior Cook, you will be expected to oversee the daily operation of the kitchen in the absence of the Catering Manager, ensuring all food is prepared to a high standard and served efficiently. You’ll also contribute to menu development, stock control, and compliance with food safety regulations.
Details
Job Title: Senior Cook
Reporting to: Catering Manager
Location: Beale Wildlife Park, Wild Cafe
Job Type: Full Time
Salary: £27,000 p/a
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook a wide variety of food items to a consistently high standard, including hot meals, snacks, and baked goods.
- Assist in planning menus, taking into account dietary requirements and seasonal availability.
- Lead and support junior kitchen staff, helping to create a positive, motivated working environment.
- Ensure food is prepared and served efficiently during busy service periods.
- Maintain excellent food hygiene and kitchen cleanliness in line with HACCP and EHO guidelines.
- Monitor stock levels, assist with stock rotation, and place orders when required.
- Work collaboratively with front-of-house staff to ensure smooth communication and service delivery.
- Be proactive in identifying improvements in kitchen operations, workflow, and customer offerings.
- Support sustainability goals by minimising food waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety, allergen, and food safety standards.
- Cover other areas of the café or park catering operation when needed, including functions, events, or mobile kiosks.
- Contribute to training and mentoring of new or junior team members.
Requirements
- Proven experience in a similar cook or kitchen supervisory role, ideally in a busy café, restaurant, or attraction.
- A genuine passion for food and commitment to delivering great service.
- Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene best practices (Level 2 or 3 Food Hygiene Certificate desirable but will be provided if needed).
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and lead by example during busy periods.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Ability to work flexibly, including weekends, bank holidays, and school holidays.
- A proactive, can-do attitude and a willingness to get involved in all aspects of kitchen and café operations.
- An interest in wildlife, nature, or conservation is a bonus but not essential.
What We Offer
- Uniform provided.
- A friendly and supportive working environment in a beautiful and inspiring location.
- Opportunity to be part of a passionate team contributing to the park’s mission and visitor experience.
- Staff discounts and perks including free park entry for family members.
- Free onsite parking.
- Full DBS check provided by us, as part of our commitment to visitor safety.
If you’re an experienced cook who thrives in a dynamic environment and loves working with great people (and perhaps the occasional curious peacock at the window), then we’d love to hear from you!