A guide to starting a career as a chef

The job of a chef is to prepare food in kitchens. Chefs typically start their careers as commis or junior chefs. Then, they gain the relevant work experience and formal qualifications needed to progress into roles which grant them greater responsibility within the workplace. Learn more about starting a career as a chef.

Entry level and formal training

Entry level Newcomers to the profession typically start their careers as commis chefs. Commis chefs learn about the different areas of food preparation, the way in which to cook meat and fish and to create sauces and desserts. They also learn the correct way in which to use kitchen equipment and look after utensils. A commis chef can become a chef de partie, and hence take responsibility for a single section of the kitchen. Chef de parties are answerable to sous chefs. Sous chefs are, in turn, governed by head or executive chefs who are in charge of whole kitchens. Formal chef training Many chefs start their careers in the absence of formal qualifications. They learn their trade through embarking on a work experience placement, where they start off by peeling vegetables and cleaning the kitchen before and after food preparation. NVQs/SVQs covering chef training are available at levels 1, 2 and 3. Some chef qualifications allow prospective chefs to specialise in specific areas of food preparation. Recent school leavers may train as chefs through an apprenticeship scheme.

Personal qualities and work conditions

Personal qualities To become a chef, it is essential to enjoy cooking. Prospective chefs must be able to stay calm under pressure and be equipped with creative talent. Business skills are valuable. Work conditions A chef may be required to work shifts. Split shifts, in which chefs work in the morning, go home for a rest and then work again in the evening, are common. The majority of chefs are required to work late into the evening. Weekend and bank holiday work is common.

Salary and work conditions

Salary A commis chef can expect to earn between £9,000 and £16,000 per annum. A sous chef can expect to earn between £14,000 and £26,000 per annum while a head chef can earn between £25,000 and £50,000 per year. Career prospects With NVQs and experience on the job, it is possible for individuals to work their way up to becoming head chefs. Chefs with ambition may go on to open their own restaurants. They may also find work lecturing or teaching prospective chefs, or become employed as advisors for food manufacturing organisations.