Cafe Restaurant jobs in Durham

The Role

As a Chef, you will be responsible for ensuring that all dishes meet our high standards. You will be a key player in our kitchen, bringing passion and creativity to the team while maintaining a clean, organised, and motivated workspace. Your role will also involve collaborating with the wider team to maintain smooth service and uphold our commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients.

What We’re Looking For

We’re on the hunt for someone who isn’t just experienced, but driven, imaginative, and hungry to make a name for themselves. Whether you’ve spent years in the kitchen or you’re a rising star ready to prove yourself, we want someone who brings dedication, ambition, and a love for fresh, honest food to the table.

You’ll be working alongside our Head Chef, Luke, who leads the kitchen with energy, passion, and a focus on pushing boundaries while maintaining high standards.

If you don’t yet have all the technical skills but possess real passion and a willingness to learn, we still want to hear from you. This is a kitchen that builds talent and gives chefs room to grow.

We’re especially excited to meet a chef who is ready to build a strong local reputation and leave their mark on Durham's dining scene.

• 3 years’ experience in a high-standard baking and pastry role (Not essential)
• Passion for fresh, quality ingredients and creative presentation
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy kitchen
• Strong understanding of food safety and compliance
• A positive attitude, a team player mindset, and great communication skills
• A proactive approach to learning, growth, and inspiring others
• Ability to reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

WhiteChurch, a vibrant bistro café, deli, and restaurant in the heart of Durham, is on the lookout for a passionate and confident Chef, capable of working with fresh ingredients to a high standard, to join our growing team. We take pride in serving fresh, locally sourced produce, creating an inviting dining experience for our guests, and fostering a positive, energetic workplace.

Located at the bustling Church Street crossroads, WhiteChurch is part of Zen Group, a leading hospitality group in Durham. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a dedicated individual with a strong work ethic, creativity, and a passion for exceptional food to be part of our journey.

Why Join Us?

• Great salary – based on experience
• Opportunities for career progression within a growing hospitality group
• Meals included on shift
• Supportive and dynamic team environment
• Be part of something special, shaping an evolving and exciting venue
• Opportunity to learn, grow, and understand all aspects of the kitchen and wider hospitality business

Hours & Salary

• Full-time or part-time roles available (20–48 hours per week)
• Competitive salary, starting at £32,000 per year (dependent on experience)
• Additional tips

Apply Now!

If you’re a passionate, creative individual with a strong work ethic and a love for fresh, locally sourced food, we’d love to hear from you! We invite interested candidates to visit WhiteChurch at their earliest convenience for an informal chat and to see our vibrant kitchen in action.

Visit our website: www.whitechurchdurham.com to learn more.

WhiteChurch – Part of Zen Group, Durham’s leading hospitality group.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Zero hours contract

Pay: £12.41-£13.50 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 48 per week

Additional pay:

• Performance bonus
• Tips

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• On-site parking

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• 12 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekend availability

Work Location: In person

Reference ID: WC1