Commis Chef Job Description for Hospitality Employers
A commis chef job description is the perfect place to start if you want to hire the right junior talent for your kitchen. If you’re running a busy service, finding the right commis chef can make all the difference. This isn’t just an entry-level role – it’s the training ground for your next generation of CDPs and sous chefs. The right hire can grow with your business. The wrong one can disrupt your flow and add pressure to your team.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to include in a commis chef job description – plus what traits to look for, what salary to offer, and how to attract candidates who are actually ready to step up.
What is a Commis Chef?
A commis chef is the most junior role in a professional kitchen brigade, working directly under a chef de partie. Think of them as kitchen apprentices — learning the ropes, prepping ingredients, mastering hygiene, and supporting the smooth running of a section.
In the right environment, a commis chef can progress quickly through the ranks. Your job ad should reflect that opportunity.
Key responsibilities to include in your Commis Chef job description
- Assist chef de parties with mise en place and service prep.
- Measure and prepare ingredients accurately.
- Wash, peel, chop and portion fruit, veg, and proteins.
- Prepare basic sauces, stocks and dressings.
- Plate dishes during service under supervision.
- Unpack deliveries and rotate stock.
- Clean stations, follow hygiene standards, and report equipment issues.
Skills and experience employers should look for
While formal qualifications help, practical attitude matters most. Look for:
- Previous kitchen experience (even as kitchen porter or in college kitchens).
- Food hygiene certification.
- Calm under pressure.
- Ability to follow instructions.
- Team player mentality.
- Strong personal hygiene standards.
- Eagerness to learn and improve.
What to pay a Commis Chef in the UK
Commis chef salaries typically start around £23,000 and can reach £27,000 depending on location and venue type. Kitchens in London, hotels, or premium venues may offer more. If you provide perks – paid meals, flexible rosters, clear pathways to promotion – make sure to include these in your job ad.
Offering pay bands or guaranteed reviews after probation is a great way to stand out in a competitive market.
Make culture and progression part of the pitch
Many commis chefs are early in their careers and actively looking for employers who will teach them, support them and treat them fairly. Your job ad is your chance to signal:
- How your team supports training.
- How trial shifts are structured.
- Whether you promote from within.
- If you offer mentorship, wellness initiatives, or career development opportunities.
Example Commis Chef job description
Here’s a sample job description you can use as a starting point.
Job Title: Commis Chef
Location: [Your Location]
Employment Type: Full-time / Part-time
Salary: £23,000–£27,000 per year, based on experience
About the role
We’re on the lookout for an enthusiastic and reliable commis chef to join our kitchen brigade. This is a hands-on, fast-paced role ideal for someone looking to develop their culinary skills and grow within a supportive team. You’ll be responsible for supporting the chef de partie, assisting with prep, and helping deliver consistent, high-quality dishes during service.
Key responsibilities
- Assist the chef de partie with prep and service tasks.
- Measure, chop, and prepare ingredients to spec.
- Cook and plate dishes under supervision during service.
- Follow strict food hygiene standards and ensure workstation cleanliness.
- Receive and organise deliveries, rotating stock effectively.
- Report shortages, equipment issues, or safety concerns promptly.
- Support the wider kitchen team during busy periods and step into other tasks when needed.
Skills & Experience
- Basic kitchen experience or relevant culinary training.
- Food hygiene certificate preferred.
- Strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn.
- Ability to follow instructions accurately and adapt quickly.
- Calm under pressure with good time management.
- A genuine passion for food, kitchens, and teamwork.
Perks & Benefits
- Meals on shift.
- Uniform provided.
- Flexible roster options.
- Opportunities for career progression (CDP and beyond).
- Training, mentorship, and development pathways.
- Access to staff discounts or wellness initiatives (if offered).
Final thoughts
Developing a great commis chef job description is a great way for you to pitch for future talent. For many chefs, this role is their very first step into the industry. By being clear about expectations, offering progression and highlighting your kitchen culture, you’ll attract candidates who are eager to learn and committed to growing with you.
Think beyond the short term: the commis you hire today could be the chef de partie, sous chef, or even head chef of your business tomorrow. Create an environment that values training, fairness and development, and you’ll not only fill a gap in your brigade but build long-term loyalty in a notoriously high-turnover industry.
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FAQs – Commis Chef job description
What does a commis chef do?
They support the chef de partie by preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and helping with service.
How much should I pay a commis chef?
Most start around £23,000–£27,000 depending on location and experience. Premium venues or city kitchens may offer more.
What’s the difference between a commis chef and a CDP?
A CDP runs a section independently. A commis supports the CDP and is still learning the ropes.
Are there different levels of commis chefs?
Yes – some kitchens use levels like 1st, 2nd, or junior commis chef depending on experience or duties.
Do commis chefs need formal qualifications?
Not always. Many start with basic training or college certificates, but progression depends more on attitude and performance.
