SOUS CHEF

Calanais Visitor Centre, United Kingdom Posted on 02/07/2026

Unique and exciting opportunity for a passionate and experienced chef to assist in the development of the catering offer and enhance the overall visitor experience at the Calanais Visitor Centre

37.5 hours per week (Average)
£30,000-£35,000 per annum

ROLE OVERVIEW

About the Calanais Visitor Centre - we are committed to preserving, researching, and sharing the rich archaeological heritage of the Calanais Standing Stones. Our vision is to create an outstanding visitor experience while maintaining a deep connection between the site, the community and the wider world. As we embark on a transformative redevelopment, we are looking for an Assistant Chef to deliver a high quality food service to enhance our visitors' experience.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, operates within a culture of respect, and creates a welcoming environment for all employees.

ROLE PURPOSE

The Calanais Visitor Centre has undergone an ambitious £10.1 million redevelopment and reopened in July 2026 as a world class, 5 star visitor attraction and a thriving community hub. This is a unique and exciting opportunity for an Assistant Chef to contribute to the development of the catering offer at the Calanais Visitor Centre. You will showcase the best of the Outer Hebrides through fresh, seasonal produce, creating high quality dishes that reflect the landscape, people and culture of the islands. You will take pride in every plate served, helping to establish the Calanais Café as a destination in its own right and an integral part of every visitor's experience.

The core catering offer will be through the Centre's onsite café, providing a welcoming environment for visitors and locals alike to enjoy good quality, seasonal food and drink. In addition to the café there will be the opportunity to develop an offer for onsite functions, within the Centre's function suite and pop up events such as evening dining experiences.

This is a full time role; working hours will vary throughout the year, with an average of 37.5 hours per week across the year. Regular working hours will be throughout the daytime, but there is a requirement to work flexibly when required, including evenings, early mornings and across the week (Monday Saturday). The salary for this post is £30,000 £35,000 per annum, which is negotiable depending on experience.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• Enjoys preparing fresh, seasonal food using high quality local ingredients.
• Takes pride in consistently delivering beautifully presented dishes.
• Wants to contribute ideas and help shape an exciting new catering offer from the very beginning.
• Enjoys working in a supportive, collaborative kitchen where people look out for one another.
• Thrives in a busy service environment while maintaining high standards.
• Is equally happy preparing café favourites during the day as helping to deliver special events and evening dining experiences.
• Wants to work somewhere where quality, kindness and teamwork matter as much as commercial success.

Whether you're already an experienced Assistant Chef looking for a fresh challenge, or you're an ambitious Chef de Partie ready to take the next step in your career, we'd love to hear from you.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES Food Preparation and Menu Development

• Assist in the planning of seasonal menus using fresh, seasonal and local ingredients, reflecting the heritage and culinary significance of the area.
• Prepare menus including breakfasts, lunches, cakes, children's meals and catering for functions.
• Prepare and cook to order, ensuring quality, consistency and speed of service.
• Cater for occasional evenings and special events.
• Prepare menus for pop up offers such as an onsite catering trailer.

Kitchen Operations Management

• Manage the kitchen and maintain standards during the Head Chef's absence.
• Assist in supervising and mentoring junior kitchen staff and seasonal team members.
• Ensure the kitchen operates efficiently, maintaining a culture of professionalism, kindness and care.

Inventory and Cost Control

• Support the Head Chef in minimising food waste and maintaining stock levels.

Health, Safety and Hygiene

• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and allergen management in line with Food Standards Scotland.

Other

• Work alongside the Visitor Operations Manager and Food & Beverage Supervisor to ensure a high standard of customer service throughout the visitor experience.
• Operate within a culture of respect, kindness and professionalism as part of the wider Visitor Centre team.
• Work with the Maintenance Manager to ensure a safe environment for both staff and visitors.
• Commit to continuous professional development.
• Deputise in the absence of the Head Chef.

PERSON SPECIFICATION Essential Skills, Experience and Qualifications

• Experience in a busy kitchen environment.
• Proven experience as Assistant Chef, or looking to step into this culinary role.
• In depth knowledge of cooking methods, ingredients and kitchen equipment.
• Excellent organisational, communication and time management skills.
• Knowledge of dietary trends with ability to cater for a variety of requirements.

Personal Attributes

• Creative flair in hot food preparation and baking skills.
• A sharp eye for food presentation and consistency.
• A good understanding of food safety and hygiene regulation.

WHAT WE OFFER

• FairWork Scotland Accreditation - Commitment to being a Living Wage employer and promoting Fair Work principles.
• Personal & Professional Development - Ongoing training, leadership development and opportunities for career growth.
• Work Life Balance - A flexible and supportive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing.
• Recognition & Reward - A culture that values contributions and celebrates achievements.
• An Inclusive & Supportive Workplace - A welcoming and dynamic environment where employees feel valued and empowered to grow.

If you are a passionate and creative chef looking to showcase your culinary talent in a unique setting, we would love to hear from you. Join us in shaping the future of the Calanais Visitor Centre and ensuring its legacy for generations to come.

This is a rare opportunity to help establish the food offering within a brand new world class visitor destination.

Working alongside an experienced Head Chef and Visitor Centre team, you'll have the opportunity to influence menus, develop seasonal dishes inspired by the islands, and help build a café that becomes known for its quality as much as its location.

Unlike many hospitality roles, this position offers predominantly daytime working hours throughout most of the year, with occasional evening events and functions, allowing for a healthier work life balance while still delivering exceptional hospitality.