Head Chef - Temporary / Seasonal - Min exp 1 years - £900 - United Kingdom
You will be working on board the highest capacity inland hotel boat in England, operating luxury river cruises from Gloucester along the River Severn and Gloucester-Sharpness Canal.
This is a live-in, sole-charge Chef position for the full cruising season.
Food is one of the highlights of our cruises, and our guests – predominantly mature and retired couples – expect high-quality, traditional English cuisine, beautifully presented and consistently delivered. We are looking for a chef who takes pride in classic cooking, organisation, and precision.
The Role
Our Chef takes full responsibility for the Galley and food operation on board, including:
Ordering and supplier liaison
Stock control and rotation
Portion control and waste management
Preparation, cooking and presentation of three set meals per day for up to 22 passengers and 5 crew
Maintaining detailed records
Keeping the Galley clean, organised and compliant
A detailed menu plan and specifications are provided. Dishes must be delivered consistently and presented to a high standard appropriate to a 4-star cruise experience.
This is a structured environment where accuracy, routine, and attention to detail are essential.
Communication & Numeracy – Essential Requirements
This role requires:
Completely fluent spoken and written English
You must be able to communicate clearly and confidently with guests, suppliers, and crew.
You must be able to read, interpret, and follow written menu specifications and procedures precisely.
You must be comfortable completing written records and stock documentation accurately.
Strong numeracy skills
Confident with stock takes, portion calculations and ordering quantities
Able to manage food costings and minimise waste
Comfortable working with figures and maintaining accurate stock control
Applications will not be considered without demonstrable fluency in English and strong numeracy competence.
Additional Responsibilities
As a member of crew, you will also receive full training and take part in:
Emergency procedures
Basic First Aid
Rope handling and boat operations
Introduction to onboard systems
You must be physically fit, comfortable climbing ladders, and able to swim.
What We Offer
Live-in accommodation on board
All meals during the cruising season
Gratuities
Staff events
A structured, supportive small team environment
Essential Criteria (All Required)
You will not be considered unless you meet all of the following:
Completely fluent in written and spoken English
Strong numeracy and stock control competence
Right to live and work in the UK
UK National Insurance number and UK bank account
Full availability from 26th March to 23rd October 2026 (no holidays during season)
Food Hygiene certification
Previous experience in stock control and waste management
Physically fit, able to climb ladders and able to swim
Available to live on board
No criminal record
Never dismissed for gross misconduct
Desirable (Not Essential)
NVQ in Food Preparation or equivalent
First Aid certification
Previous boat experience (professional or leisure)
Previous live-in role
The Ideal Candidate Will Be:
Self-motivated and confident working independently
Highly organised and methodical
Comfortable following structured systems and procedures
Calm and constructive within a small team
Reliable, punctual and professional
Honest and accountable
Respectful of a mature guest demographic
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