Unique and exciting opportunity for a passionate and experienced chef to assist in the development of the catering offer and enhance the overall visitor experience at the Calanais
Visitor Centre
ROLE OVERVIEW
About
the Calanais Visitor Centre
At
the Calanais Visitor Centre, we are committed to preserving, researching, and
sharing the rich archaeological heritage of the Calanais Standing Stones. Our
vision is to create an outstanding visitor experience while maintaining a deep
connection between the site, the community, and the wider world. As we embark
on a transformative redevelopment, we are looking for a Assistant Chef to deliver a high-quality
food service to enhance our visitors’ experience.
We
are proud to be an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity,
operates within a culture of respect, and creates a welcoming environment for
all employees.
Role
Purpose
The
Calanais Visitor Centre is undergoing an ambitious £10.1 million redevelopment
and will reopen in July 2026 as a world-class, 5-star visitor attraction and a
thriving community hub. This is a unique and exciting opportunity for an
experienced chef to assist in the development of the catering offer at the Calanais
Visitor Centre. You’ll be passionate about taking local seasonal ingredients
and making high quality food prepared on-site, taking pride in ensuring every
dish meets your high expectations and enhances the overall visitor experience.
The
core catering offer will be through the Centre’s onsite café, providing a welcoming
environment for visitors and locals alike to enjoy good quality, seasonal food
and drink. In addition to the café there will be the opportunity to develop an
offer for onsite functions, within the Centre’s function suite and pop-up
events such as evening dining experiences.
This
is a full-time role, working hours will vary throughout the year, with an
average of 37.5 hours per week across the year. Regular working hours will be
throughout the daytime, however there is a requirement to work flexibly when
required, including evenings, early mornings and across the week
(Monday-Saturday).
The
salary for this post is £30,000-£35,000 per annum, which is negotiable
dependent on experience.
Reports
to: Head
Chef
Direct Reports: N/A
Requirements
Roles
& Responsibilities
Food Preparation and Menu Development
·Assist
in the planning of seasonal menus using fresh, seasonal and local ingredients,
reflecting the heritage and culinary significance of the area.
·Prepare
menus including breakfasts, lunches, cakes, children’s meals and catering for
functions.
·Prepare
and cook to order, ensuring quality, consistency and speed of service.
·Cater
for occasional evenings and special events.
·Prepare
menus for pop-up offers such as an onsite catering trailer.
Kitchen Operations Management
·Manage
the kitchen and maintain standards during the Head Chef’s absence.
·Assist
in supervising and mentoring junior kitchen staff and seasonal team members.
·Ensure
the kitchen operates efficiently, maintaining a culture of professionalism,
kindness, and care.
Inventory and Cost Control
·Support
the Head Chef in minimising food waste and maintaining stock levels.
Health, Safety and Hygiene
·Maintain
the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and allergen management in line
with Food Standards Scotland.
Other
·Work
alongside the Visitor Operations Manager and Food & Beverage Supervisor to
ensure a high standard of customer service throughout the visitor experience.
·Operating within a culture of respect,
kindness, and professionalism as part of the wider Visitor Centre team.
·Work
with the Maintenance Manager to ensure a safe environment for both staff and
visitors.
·Commit
to continuous professional development.
·Deputise
in the absence of the Head Chef.
Person
Specification
Essential Skills, Experience and
Qualifications
·Experience
in a busy kitchen environment.
·Proven
experience as Assistant Chef, or looking to step into this culinary role.
·In-depth
knowledge of cooking methods, ingredients and kitchen equipment.
·Excellent
organisational, communication and time management skills.
·Knowledge
of dietary trends with ability to cater for a variety of requirements
Personal Attributes
·Creative
flair in hot food preparation and baking skills.
·A
sharp eye for food presentation and consistency.
·A
good understanding of food safety and hygiene regulation.
Benefits
What We Offer
At the Calanais Visitor Centre, we believe in creating a
supportive, rewarding, and inspiring workplace. We offer:
- Fair
Work Scotland Accreditation – Commitment to being a Living Wage employer and
promoting Fair Work principles.
- Personal
& Professional Development – Ongoing training, leadership
development, and opportunities for career growth.
- Work-Life
Balance – A flexible and supportive work environment that prioritises employee
wellbeing.
- Recognition
& Reward – A culture that values contributions and celebrates achievements.
- An
Inclusive & Supportive Workplace – A welcoming and dynamic
environment where employees feel valued and empowered to grow.
If you are a passionate and creative chef looking to
showcase your culinary talent in a unique setting, we would love to hear from
you. Join us in shaping the future of the Calanais Visitor Centre and ensuring
its legacy for generations to come.
Questions?
No query is too small or not worth asking, so please get
in touch with Head Chef, Marshall Galloway.Email: careers@calanais.org
