Job title

Job description

Chef de Partie - Variable Hours

House of Lords - Catering and Retail Services

BELONG HERE. TOGETHER, WE MAKE PARLIAMENT HAPPEN.

As a Chef de Partie 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 help deliver high-quality food experiences across a variety of kitchen and catering environments. Working closely with colleagues and managers, you will prepare, cook and present food to agreed standards, supporting different Catering and Retail Services (CRS) operations as business needs require.

You'll will play an important role in maintaining excellent standards of food quality, presentation, food safety, hygiene and stock management, contributing to services that range from staff dining and restaurant service to hospitality functions, banqueting and high-profile events.

This role offers the opportunity to work across a diverse range of kitchen settings, developing your skills and experience while working as part of a supportive team.

This is an exciting opportunity to work within a professional team delivering exceptional food and service standards in one of the most unique catering environments in the United Kingdom.

This post is offered on a Variable Hours Contract basis. There is no guaranteed minimum number of working hours. Hours of work will be offered subject to business and operational requirements.

What you'll be doing

In this role, you'll:

• Take ownership of a designated kitchen section, ensuring it operates smoothly and efficiently.
• Prepare, cook and present dishes to agreed standards, taking pride in quality and consistency.
• Help maintain consistent standards in food quality, flavour, presentation and portion control.
• Prepare mise en place effectively, ensuring readiness for service and a smooth kitchen operation.
• Maintain a clean, safe and organised working environment.
• Follow all food hygiene, HACCP, allergen and health and safety procedures.
• Assisting with stock rotation and inventory management.
• Helping to minimise waste through effective planning, storage and stock control.
• Using ingredients responsibly and efficiently.

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:

• Experience working in a professional kitchen environment, ideally within catering, hospitality, banqueting or restaurant settings. Experience in high-volume operations would be beneficial.
• An understanding of food hygiene, HACCP and allergen management.
• Good communication skills, a proactive attitude and a commitment to providing excellent service.
• Familiarity with computerised food safety and stock management systems, with confidence to learn new systems and processes as required.
• A team-focused approach, with the ability to follow guidance, work collaboratively and contribute positively to the success of the kitchen.
• A recognised culinary qualification such as NVQ Level 2 Professional Cookery or equivalent.

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

• Experience in a heritage, institutional, or government catering setting.
• Familiarity with British and international cuisines.
• Interest in sustainable and ethical food practices.

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 14 th September 2026.