Chef / Catering Assistant Jobs in Derby DE24 – Immediate Start with Staff Direct
Staff Direct is currently recruiting for an experienced and reliable Chef / Catering Assistant for an immediate temporary-to-permanent placement with a leading hospitality provider in the Derby DE24 area. This is a fantastic opportunity for an ASAP start, offering a competitive pay rate, flexible shift patterns, and the potential for ongoing, long-term work for the right candidate. Whether you're a seasoned chef looking for a new challenge or a dedicated catering assistant keen to develop your skills in a fast-paced kitchen, this role provides the perfect platform. We specialise in connecting talented individuals with top-tier employers across Derbyshire, ensuring a smooth, efficient, and supportive recruitment process from application to placement.
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Location
Derby DE24
Local & surrounding areas
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Start Date
ASAP Start
Available immediately
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Pay Rate
£12.50 - £13.50 p/h
Based on experience
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Duration
Temporary
Temp-to-perm possible
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Job Description
We are seeking a versatile and hands-on Chef / Catering Assistant to join a dynamic team at a high-volume catering establishment in Derby DE24. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a busy kitchen environment, enjoys both food preparation and service, and takes pride in maintaining exceptional standards of hygiene and quality. The employer is a well-respected name in the local hospitality sector, known for providing excellent staff facilities and a supportive management structure. This position has become available due to continued expansion and offers a genuine pathway to a permanent contract for a candidate who demonstrates commitment, skill, and a positive attitude.
Applying through Staff Direct means you gain access to our extensive network of Derby-based employers and benefit from our local expertise. We understand the specific demands of the Derby DE24 job market and will match you with roles that suit your skills and career aspirations. Unlike generic job boards, we offer a personalised service where your dedicated consultant will guide you through the registration, interview, and placement process, ensuring you are fully prepared and supported. Whether you're looking for an immediate start in catering or exploring other immediate start roles across different sectors, we are here to help you find the right fit quickly and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
- Assisting the Head Chef and kitchen team with daily food preparation, including chopping vegetables, preparing meats, and making sauces and salads to standard recipes.
- Operating kitchen equipment safely (e.g., ovens, grills, fryers, slicing machines) and maintaining all areas to the highest standards of cleanliness and food hygiene (HACCP).
- Supporting during service times by plating meals, managing the pass, and ensuring timely delivery of food to the front-of-house team or customers.
- Carrying out basic cooking duties under supervision, helping to manage stock levels, conducting routine fridge and temperature checks, and assisting with deliveries.
- Working collaboratively as part of a team to ensure the kitchen runs smoothly, adhering to all health & safety regulations, and contributing to a positive working environment.
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience in a similar Chef / Catering Assistant role within a commercial kitchen, restaurant, or high-volume catering environment.
- A solid understanding of food hygiene and safety practices, with a relevant Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2) being highly desirable.
- A flexible, can-do attitude with the ability to work under pressure during peak service times, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends as required.
- Good communication skills, reliability, and a strong team ethic. A passion for food and a willingness to learn and take on new tasks are essential.
Salary & Benefits
We believe in offering fair and attractive packages to secure the best talent for our clients in Derby. For this Chef / Catering Assistant position, you can expect:
- Competitive Hourly Pay: Earn between £12.50 and £13.50 per hour, depending on your previous experience and qualifications. Pay is reviewed regularly.
- Weekly Pay: Get paid reliably every week, directly into your bank account.
- Flexible Shift Patterns: A variety of shifts are available, including days, evenings, and weekends, allowing you to balance work with other commitments.
- Temp-to-Perm Pathway: This role offers a clear route to a permanent position for candidates who excel, providing job security and career progression.
- Support & Training: Access to ongoing support from your Staff Direct consultant and opportunities for further training and development within the role.
These benefits are designed to make your employment rewarding and straightforward. We also place candidates in a wide range of other sectors; for example, if you have friends skilled in trades, we frequently recruit for an Electrician / Mechanical Fitter, or if warehouse work is of interest, we have numerous Warehouse Operative positions. Explore all options on our Job Opportunities in the UK portal.
Why Register with Staff Direct?
As a trusted Derby DE24 recruitment and temporary staffing agency, Staff Direct connects skilled staff with employers who need them fast. When you register with us you get:
- Competitive pay rates that reflect your experience and the local Derby market rates.
- Weekly pay and a fast, friendly registration process – often getting you to work within 48 hours.
- Access to a huge variety of roles – from temporary and part-time to full-time and temp-to-perm positions across multiple sectors.
- A dedicated consultant who understands the local Derby market and will advocate for you, helping with everything from CV advice to interview preparation.
Our process is designed for speed and simplicity. Just like we detail in our resource on finding jobs through temp agencies, we streamline your path to employment, handling the admin so you can focus on the job.
How to Apply
Applying for this Chef / Catering Assistant role in Derby DE24 is quick and easy. We want to get you started as soon as possible. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Submit Your Details
Click the"Apply Now" button on this page to be taken to our secure application form. Fill in your basic details and upload your CV.
Step 2: Quick Registration Call
A friendly consultant from our Derby team will call you to discuss your experience, confirm your eligibility to work, and tell you more about the role.
Step 3: Interview & Placement
We'll arrange a fast-track interview with the client. Upon success, we'll handle all the paperwork and get you your shift schedule for an immediate start.
If you are interested email your cv and info to [email protected]. You can also call our team directly on 020 3627 5550 to speak to a consultant about this or any other role, such as Warehouse Jobs in Leicester or Part Time Jobs in Reading.
Other Immediate Chef / Catering Assistant Roles in Derby DE24 Available Now
The demand for skilled kitchen and hospitality staff in Derby is high. Below is a selection of other live vacancies we are actively recruiting for. Apply for multiple roles to increase your chances of an immediate start.
| Job Title | Location | Pay Rate | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis Chef | Derby City Centre | £12.80 p/h | Apply |
| School Catering Assistant | Allenton, DE24 | £12.44 p/h | Apply |
| Kitchen Porter / Assistant | Sinfin, DE24 | £12.50 p/h | Apply |
| Hospital Catering Assistant | Derby DE22 | £12.75 p/h | Apply |
| Prep Chef | Alvaston, DE24 | £12.50 p/h | Apply |
| Conference & Events Catering Assistant | Pride Park, DE24 | £12.60 p/h | Apply |
| Sandwich Chef / Maker | Derby DE1 | £12.50 p/h | Apply |
| Pastry Kitchen Assistant | Chellaston, DE73 | £12.80 p/h | Apply |
| Head Chef (Temp Cover) | Derby DE24 | £15.50 p/h | Apply |
| General Catering Assistant (Part-Time) | Mickleover, DE3 | £12.44 p/h | Apply |
All advertised pay rates are indicative and depend on experience, shift, and client. For the latest vacancies, always check our All Jobs page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can I start this Chef / Catering Assistant job in Derby DE24?
We are recruiting for an immediate start. Once you apply, our team aims to contact you within a few hours during business hours. If your experience is suitable and you can provide the necessary documentation (Right to Work, references), we can often arrange an interview and get you started within 24-48 hours. Speed is a hallmark of our service, much like our process for Warehouse Jobs in Leicester.
Do I need formal catering qualifications to apply?
While a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate is highly desirable and often requested by clients, the most important factor is your practical experience in a commercial kitchen. If you have proven experience as a Chef, Commis Chef, or Catering Assistant, we encourage you to apply. We can sometimes advise on quick, affordable courses to obtain the certificate if needed.
What is the difference between temporary and temp-to-perm?
A temporary role has a fixed end date or is ongoing with no permanent guarantee. Temp-to-perm means you start on a temporary basis through Staff Direct, but the employer has the intention to offer you a permanent contract directly with them after a successful trial period (usually 8-12 weeks). This role is advertised as temp-to-perm possible, meaning there is a clear pathway to permanency for the right candidate.
Will I get paid weekly, and how does it work?
Yes, all Staff Direct temporary workers are paid weekly. You will submit your timesheet, we invoice the client, and then funds are transferred directly to your bank account. You will receive a detailed payslip. This reliable weekly pay cycle is a major benefit of working through an agency like ours.
I live near DE24 but am also looking for work in other sectors. Can you help?
Absolutely. Staff Direct is a multi-sector agency. While this page is for a Chef / Catering Assistant, we also have high demand for roles like Warehouse Operative, Electrician / Mechanical Fitter, and even Phlebotomist positions in the wider region. When you register with us, your consultant will discuss all your skills and job preferences. You can also browse our comprehensive Job Opportunities in the UK page to see the full range.
What should I include in my CV when applying for this role?
Focus on your practical kitchen experience. List previous employers, your key responsibilities (food prep, cooking, cleaning, stock control), the types of cuisine or service you worked with, and any specific equipment you're proficient with. Mention your Food Hygiene Certificate if you have one. Keep it clear and concise – 2 pages maximum. If you need guidance, our blog has useful tips, similar to our Candidate Screening Guide which offers employer insights.
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Contact Staff Direct
Get in touch with our recruitment team today to discuss this Chef / Catering Assistant role in Derby DE24, or to explore other opportunities. We're here to help you find your next job quickly.
| Staff Direct Derby DE24 Region Serving Derbyshire & the East Midlands |
Phone: +44 (0)2036275550 Email: [email protected] Apply Online: www.staff-direct.co.uk/all-jobs/ |
Staff Direct is an equal-opportunities recruitment and temporary staffing agency serving Derby DE24 and the surrounding region. Registration number and company details available upon request.
If you are interested email your cv and info to [email protected]