Section Chef

Job Type: 37.5 hours per week

We are looking for an experienced Section Chef to join and support our busy, friendly kitchen team. This is a great opportunity to be part of a dynamic, forward-thinking, and inclusive college, working closely with another Section Chef, as well as our Sous Chef, Pastry Chef, and Head Chef.

In this role, you’ll gain experience across multiple kitchen sections, taking responsibility for food preparation, maintaining high hygiene standards, and delivering consistently strong presentation and quality across a varied food offer.

We’re looking for someone with a professional cookery or food preparation qualification, solid culinary skills, and a flexible, team-focused approach. Previous experience in a similar environment is helpful, but not essential—full training and support will be provided.

The role operates on a four-week rotating shift pattern. Shifts are structured to provide a good work-life balance, with a mix of daytime and some evening work (typically at least two evenings per week), and just one weekend in four. Evening shifts are planned and not late into the night, making them more manageable than many hospitality roles.

In return we can offer a benefits package including:

• 36 days holiday pro rata
• Free meals on shift
• A 6% employer contributory pension scheme
• Free car parking (if available)
• Life assurance x3 salary
• A health cash back scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Wellbeing programme including free yoga and bootcamp sessions
• College gym
• College punt hire
• Employee Assistance Programme

To learn more about this post or to make an informal enquiry please contact: the Head Chef, Erica McGee-Long at headchef@lucy.cam.ac.uk.  

To apply for this role, please complete our application form available below or submit your CV together with your reasons for applying for this role to recruitment@lucy.cam.ac.uk via the above 'Apply' button.

Closing date: Friday 22 May 2026 (we reserve the right to close the advert sooner should we appoint prior to this date)

Application Form 

Job Description and Person Specification 

Lucy Cavendish College is committed to recruiting, retaining and developing a workforce that reflects the diverse communities that we serve. Candidates are requested to complete the Equality Opportunities Monitoring Form as part of their application. The information provided is anonymous and will not be used in considering your application or given to the selection panel.

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