River Cottage Sous Chef
Location: River Cottage HQ, Trinity Hill, Axminster (Dorset/Devon border)
Reports to: Head Chef / Executive Chef
Full-Time, Permanent
About Us
River Cottage is an organic, 80-acre farm known for its commitment to seasonal, local, and sustainable food. We grow, rear, and produce as much of our food as possible on-site, offering everything from tasting menu feasts and Sunday lunches to cookery courses, weddings, and bespoke events.
Role Overview
We are looking for a passionate Sous Chef to join our team at River Cottage HQ. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys variety, as no two days are the same. You will work alongside our Head Chef to create innovative, seasonal menus for a wide range of events and cookery courses. You’ll also teach cooking demonstrations, using fresh, local ingredients and sharing your passion for sustainable food.
As part of a small, close-knit kitchen team, you will help manage day-to-day operations, including ordering and supplier communication, while maintaining River Cottage’s high standards. Expect mostly daytime shifts with occasional evening work.
Key Responsibilities
Menu Creation: Develop seasonal, inventive menus for multiple-course dinners, lunches, and events, adjusting daily based on fresh produce from the farm and local suppliers.
Teach & Demonstrate: Lead cookery courses and cooking demonstrations, educating guests and sharing knowledge on sustainable food practices.
Team Leadership: Work closely with the Head Chef to co-lead a small kitchen team, overseeing operations, supplier communications, and ensuring smooth service.
Maintain High Standards: Ensure all food is prepared to the highest standards while following River Cottage’s ethos of sustainability and ethical sourcing.
Collaboration: Work with the Land team and other departments to ensure the smooth running of all events, courses, and weddings.
Who You’ll Be Working With
You’ll be working alongside Chiara, one of our talented chefs in the cookery school, and a small, dedicated kitchen team. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive, collaborative environment where creativity thrives.
What We Offer
Work with the best local, seasonal produce on a beautiful, working farm.
Flexible working hours, with mostly daytime shifts and only occasional evening work.
Opportunities for training and career development, including free places on our cookery courses.
Discounts on events and shop items.
A dynamic work environment where no day is ever the same, with opportunities to learn and grow in areas like foraging, baking, and fire cookery.
Experience & Skills Required
Proven experience in a similar role (Sous Chef, Chef de Partie, or similar).
A passion for seasonal, sustainable ingredients and ethical food practices.
Experience in leading a team and managing kitchen operations.
Strong communication skills and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
(Optional) Experience in teaching or conducting cooking demonstrations is a plus.
How to Apply:
Send your CV and cover letter to careers@rivercottage.net.