Commis Chef Job Description: Duties, Skills & Career Path

Looking at a commis chef job description is the perfect place to start if you’re thinking about a career in the kitchen. This entry-level role is where your culinary journey really begins. It’s the springboard to becoming a chef de partie, sous chef, or even head chef one day.

Here’s everything you need to know about being a commis chef – job description, key responsibilities, required skills, salary expectations, and career path.

What is a Commis Chef?

A commis chef is a junior member of the kitchen brigade who works under a chef de partie (CDP). It’s a hands-on learning role – prepping ingredients, following basic recipes, maintaining hygiene, and helping service run smoothly.

It’s also the point where you begin to understand the discipline of a professional kitchen. You’ll rotate across different sections – veg, grill, sauces, pastry, to build a broad foundation. This rotation makes the commis chef role one of the most important stepping stones in hospitality.

If you’re reliable, passionate, and ready to learn, you’ll fit right in.

Typical duties and responsibilities

These are the most common tasks you’ll be expected to carry out as a commis chef:

• Measure, chop, peel, and portion ingredients.
• Assist CDPs with mise en place and plating.
• Make basic sauces, stocks, and dressings.
• Receive deliveries and rotate stock.
• Clean down stations and keep kitchen hygiene high.
• Follow food safety procedures and kitchen rules.

While these may sound simple, they’re the foundation of every dish and all successful kitchens. Great commis chefs learn to work with speed and precision – because in a busy service, seconds count.

Skills you’ll need to be a Commis Chef

You don’t need years of experience, but you do need the right attitude. Most kitchens will look for:

• Basic kitchen or hospitality experience.
• A food hygiene certificate (or willingness to get one).
• Ability to follow instructions and work fast.
• A calm approach under pressure.
• A genuine interest in food and learning.

Soft skills matter too. Teamwork, communication, and resilience are just as important as knife skills. Being able to take feedback and bounce back quickly is what makes good commis chefs stand out.

Training and qualifications

Not all kitchens require formal training, but many employers prefer candidates who have:

• NVQ Level 2 in Professional Cookery (UK) or equivalent.
• Apprenticeships combining work and study.
• College-based culinary certificates.

Some chefs enter the industry straight from school and learn entirely on the job. Others combine part-time study with kitchen work. Whichever route you take, the key is consistent practice and a willingness to learn.

Commis chef job description and salary (UK)

Salaries for commis chefs in the UK usually start around £23,000 and can rise to £27,000 depending on the kitchen, location, and experience.

You may also get perks like staff meals, uniforms, training, or bonuses in some venues. London kitchens and high-end hotels may pay more. And remember – this role is about building your skills and reputation. The real earning potential comes with progression to CDP and beyond.