Chef de Partie | Undercroft Foodcourt

40 hours per week during university term time

Join our energetic team at the Undercroft Foodcourt - home to three popular and fast-paced outlets:

Burgatory – Burgers, fries, and weekly specials
El Kiosco – Nachos, tortillas, tacos, salads, burritos & more
Umami, Spice & Everything Rice – Wontons, fried rice, spring rolls, BBQ wings, bao buns

We’re on the lookout for a skilled and motivated Chef de Partie to help deliver consistently high-quality food across all three outlets. You'll play a key role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen, supporting the Sous Chef, and contributing to menu development, kitchen operations, and food safety compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook, and present meals to a consistently high standard, including dietary options, while supervising and supporting junior kitchen staff
• Ensure food hygiene compliance and maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen in line with the UCSA Food Control Plan
• Contribute to creative, seasonal menu development and ensure meals meet quality, quantity, and presentation standards
• Assist with stock control, ordering, and monthly stocktakes to ensure smooth kitchen operations
• Maintain clear, professional communication with kitchen, front-of-house, and management teams

What We’re Looking For

• At least 2 years’ experience in a commercial kitchen
• Level 3 National Certificate in Hospitality (Professional Cookery)
• Strong kitchen leadership skills and the ability to work effectively as both part of a team and unsupervised
• Excellent attention to detail, commitment to food quality and able to handle pressure
• Great communication and interpersonal skills
• Honest, reliable, and professional in all aspects of work
• Confident with ordering, stock control, and supplier communication

About UCSA

Nau Mai Ki Te Rōpū Akonga ō Te Whare Wānanga ō Waitaha

Welcome to The University of Canterbury Students’ Association (UCSA)

Established in 1894, the UCSA is a registered not-for-profit organisation that supports UC students to succeed and belong.

Our organisation is governed by an elected Student Executive, and we employ over 300 staff. Together, we dish up a range of student-focused services, including advocacy and welfare, representation, subsidised dental and optometry, early learning centres, club support, events, and media.

The UCSA commercial team manages several cafes and bars, as well as sizeable catering and events teams delivering services to students, staff, external customers and commercial partners.

How to Apply

Please apply through our careers site.

Please note we will be reviewing applications as they are received and we reserve the right to appoint a suitable candidate before the application closing date.