Cafe jobs in Baldock East

No evenings. No split shifts. Join one of Hertfordshire’s busiest independent specialty coffee shops, serving high-quality food and bakes made fresh in-house.

We’re looking for an enthusiastic, reliable and passionate Chef to join our friendly kitchen team and work alongside our Head Chef in delivering fresh, high-quality food every day.

As a key member of our small kitchen, you’ll be involved in all aspects of food preparation, helping to create and serve our daytime brunch menu while bringing your own creativity and ideas to seasonal specials and new dishes. We’re looking for someone who takes pride in their work, enjoys working with fresh ingredients, and thrives in a fast-paced but supportive environment.

Although most of our baking is produced at our dedicated bakery, you’ll be responsible for baking off a small selection of our freshly made cookies, pastries and other treats as part of the daily kitchen routine.

This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a growing independent business where your ideas genuinely matter. We’re passionate about great food, great coffee and creating an enjoyable place to work, and we’re looking for someone who shares those values.

Please note: Sunday and Monday are essential working days for this role, as you’ll be leading the kitchen while our Head Chef has their days off.

Your regular days off will be on other days of the week.

We are open 8:00am – 4:00pm, Monday to Sunday.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef with the day-to-day running of the kitchen.
• Confidently lead the kitchen on Sundays and Mondays in the Head Chef’s absence.
• Prepare and serve our fresh brunch menu to a consistently high standard.
• Contribute ideas and help develop new menu items and seasonal specials, from imaginative sandwiches and toast toppings to gluten-free options, granola, porridge bowls and more.
• Bake off a small selection of our freshly prepared cookies, pastries and sweet treats.
• Help manage stock, minimise waste and maintain excellent food hygiene, cleanliness and kitchen organisation.
• Work efficiently as part of a close-knit team during busy service.

What We’re Looking For

• Previous kitchen experience is essential, ideally in a similar cafe or brunch environment.
• A genuine passion for producing fresh, high-quality food.
• Someone who is reliable, organised and enjoys working as part of a small team.
• The confidence to run the kitchen independently when required.
• A positive attitude, willingness to learn and pride in everything you produce.

Why Join Batch Fifty Two?

• Daytime hours only – no evenings or split shifts.
• Be part of one of Hertfordshire’s busiest independent specialty coffee shops.
• Work with fresh, quality ingredients and a menu that’s constantly evolving.
• Have genuine input into new dishes and seasonal menus.
• Join a passionate, supportive team where your creativity and enthusiasm are valued.
• Be part of an exciting independent business with ambitious plans for growth.

Pay: £11.00-£14.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount

Experience:

• Kitchen: 2 years (preferred)

Work Location: In person