Chef, Cook and Kitchen Assistant Interview Questions and Answers (UK): Trial Shifts and Food Hygiene

Kitchen jobs in the UK are fast, hot and physical. Interviews are usually quick and often followed by a trial shift. Chefs want to see that you are clean, organised, quick and a good team player.

What to expect

Your interview might be with the head chef or kitchen manager. They will ask about your experience, speed, knowledge of food safety and attitude. A trial shift or cooking test is common. It might be unpaid or paid, so check beforehand.

What chefs look for

• Cleanliness and food hygiene.

• Reliability and willingness to work evenings, weekends and holidays.

• Ability to take instructions and work calmly under pressure.

• Enthusiasm for learning and for food.

Common questions and example answers

Why do you want to be a chef? "I love creating food people enjoy and working in a busy team. I enjoy the pace and I want to keep learning."

How do you cope with pressure in a busy service? "I prepare well in advance with mise en place, communicate with the team and stay focused on one order at a time."

What are the 14 allergens? Celery, cereals containing gluten, crustaceans, eggs, fish, lupin, milk, molluscs, mustard, nuts, peanuts, sesame, soya and sulphur dioxide. Be able to explain that you follow the allergen policy, never guess and check with the chef.

How do you prevent cross-contamination? "I use separate boards and knives, wash hands regularly, store raw and ready-to-eat food separately and clean as I go."

What temperature should food be stored and cooked at? Chilled food is kept at 8 degrees Celsius or below in the UK (many aim for 5), hot food held at 63 degrees or above and core cooking temperature typically 75 degrees, according to the rules in your food safety management system. Check the guidance of the Food Standards Agency.

Qualifications

A Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate is normally expected, and many employers ask for Level 3 for supervisors. Catering NVQs and City and Guilds awards are recognised. Mention HACCP knowledge.

Trial shift tips

Arrive early, wear clean whites or the dress code and bring your own knives if asked. Ask questions, keep your station clean and help others. Be honest about what you can do.

Quick answers

Do I need qualifications to start as a kitchen porter? No, but food hygiene training helps.

How do I progress? Commis chef to chef de partie to sous chef and head chef through experience and training.

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