How a part-time chef job can kickstart your culinary career
So, you’ve got a passion for food and an itch to get into the kitchen—but maybe you’re not quite ready to dive into a full-time chef gig just yet. No worries! A part-time chef job could be the perfect way to dip your toes into the culinary world.
You can learn some new skills, build confidence, or just see what working in a kitchen is really like, a part-time role gives you all the experience you need to kickstart your culinary career.
And at M&B, we’ve got plenty of part-time chef opportunities to help you start your journey in the kitchen—let’s talk about how this could be the perfect first step!
Why a part-time chef job is the ideal start for your culinary journey
Dreaming of a culinary career but not ready to commit to full-time just yet? A part-time chef job could be exactly what you need!
It’s the perfect way to dip your toes into the kitchen life without the pressure. You’ll get to:
- Learn the ropes in a real kitchen environment
- Build confidence and pick up new skills on the job
- Balance your life—whether you’re studying, working other jobs, or just enjoying a bit of freedom
Part-time roles allow you to ease into the culinary world at your own pace.
Hands-on kitchen experience
A part-time chef job is all about learning by doing. You’ll be right there in the heart of the kitchen, working alongside experienced chefs who can show you the ropes and teach you the skills that’ll take you far in your culinary career.
You’ll get to try your hand at everything from prepping ingredients to cooking and plating dishes.
Plus, you’ll be in the perfect spot to ask questions, learn new techniques, and get instant feedback on your work.
The best part? You’ll do all of this in a supportive environment that lets you build your skills and confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
It’s the perfect way to get your hands dirty (in the best way possible) while learning from the best!
Building foundational culinary skills
Starting as a part-time chef is the perfect way to build a solid foundation for your culinary career. In the kitchen, you'll pick up essential skills that every chef needs, like:
- Knife skills: Mastering the basics of chopping, slicing, and dicing like a pro.
- Cooking techniques: Learning how to properly sauté, grill, roast, and bake.
- Food preparation: Understanding how to efficiently prep ingredients and organize a workstation.
- Plating: Perfecting the art of presenting dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
- Kitchen safety: From food hygiene to safe handling of equipment, you'll learn how to keep both your kitchen and your team safe.
These skills form the backbone of a successful culinary career. Even though you're starting part-time, the experience you gain in mastering these foundational techniques will set you up for bigger and better things down the road.
You'll be confident in the kitchen and ready to take on more complex challenges as you grow!
Kickstart your kitchen career with a part-time chef job
If you are looking to see if this career path is for you or you’re already dreaming of your next step, a part-time chef role at M&B offers the hands-on experience you need to grow.
You’ll pick up foundational skills, like mastering knife techniques and understanding cooking methods, all while building your confidence in a fast-paced kitchen.
Jump in and get cooking and start learning from the best in the business. Explore our part-time jobs today.
Receive articles like this
Enter your email address and you will be registered to receive the latest content and insights produced by Company name, direct to your inbox. If you have selected a category or content type you will receive the latest insights from that area.
By clicking submit you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy.
See what we’re all about
We're shaping a workplace where everyone thrives. Explore the heart and soul of Mitchells & Butlers by checking out our guiding principles.
Our valuesOur Stories
Teaser
Our CultureContent Type
BlogPublish date
12/01/2025
Summary
If the thought of tinsel, festive tunes, and roast dinners gets you excited, or even if you’re usually a bit of a Scrooge, then a Christmas chef job might just be your perfect seasonal gig. I
by
Rachel Weaver
Teaser
Career AdviceContent Type
BlogPublish date
11/24/2025
Summary
Landing a kitchen assistant role at M&B is your chance to be part of a busy, buzzing kitchen where every day is a chance to learn, grow, and help create unforgettable dining experiences. But befo
by
Daria Dysarz
Teaser
Our BrandsContent Type
BlogPublish date
11/17/2025
Summary
If you’ve ever enjoyed a Sunday roast with all the trimmings, you’ll know there’s more to Toby Carvery than just giant Yorkshire puddings and crispy roast potatoes. Behind every meal, every fri
by
Rachel Weaver
Teaser
Career AdviceContent Type
BlogPublish date
11/17/2025
Summary
When you think of M&B, you probably picture bustling pubs and restaurants filled with great food, drinks, and friendly faces, from Toby Carvery and All Bar One to Miller & Carter. But behind ever
by
Laura Kelly
Teaser
Our BrandsContent Type
BlogPublish date
11/17/2025
Summary
Step into a world where countryside calm meets something effortlessly stylish, welcome to Premium Country Pubs Collection. Picture this: open log fires, chic interiors, and vibrant terraces for a
by
Rebecca Skeet
Teaser
Career DevelopmentContent Type
BlogPublish date
10/21/2025
Summary
Looking to check in to an exciting future and book yourself a career in property? At M&B, we’ve got just the reservation for you. Our Undergraduate Property Scheme is more than just a placement;
by
Sophie Russell
Teaser
Our CultureContent Type
BlogPublish date
10/14/2025
Summary
At M&B, we’ve always known that hospitality is about more than just food and drink, it’s about people. That’s why we’re so excited to share our promise to our people: Hospitality with Heart. Hosp
by
Rebecca Houseago
Teaser
Our BrandsContent Type
BlogPublish date
10/14/2025
Summary
At Stonehouse Pizza & Carvery, we believe good food brings people together, from freshly carved roasts piled high with all the trimmings to 100% fresh dough pizzas served straight from the oven.
by
Katie Handy
Teaser
Career DevelopmentContent Type
BlogPublish date
10/13/2025
Summary
Think finance is all about spreadsheets and number crunching? Think again. At Mitchells & Butlers (M&B), our Finance Graduate Scheme is where finance meets food, strategy meets service, and every
by
Rebecca Skeet