Do I need a formal qualification to work as a chef?

Not always; many chefs build experience through kitchen roles, though a culinary qualification or food hygiene certificate can strengthen an application.

How do I show I can cope with a busy service?

Give a specific example of working a section during a high-volume service and maintaining quality and timing.

Should I list specific dishes or cuisines I have cooked?

Yes, mentioning specific cuisines, sections or signature dishes helps show your real experience and specialisms.

Chef CV example

A strong chef CV shows practical kitchen experience, food hygiene knowledge and the ability to work under pressure during service, ideally with detail on which sections or dishes you have handled. Mentioning relevant qualifications and consistency during busy service reassures employers you can cope with a real kitchen environment.

Marcus Hill

Chef

marcus@example.com

07700 900107

Leicester

Profile

Committed chef with experience working across starters, mains and prep sections in a busy restaurant kitchen. Comfortable working to a high standard under pressure during service, with a strong focus on food hygiene and consistency. Experienced training and supporting junior kitchen staff.

Experience

Chef de Partie

a restaurant kitchen

Ran the starters section during busy service, maintaining consistent quality and timing

Prepared ingredients and dishes in line with recipe specifications and food safety standards

Managed stock levels for the section and reported shortages to the head chef

Trained and supported new commis chefs on section procedures

Maintained a clean and organised section in line with food hygiene regulations

Key skills

Food preparation

Food hygiene and safety

Section work

Menu knowledge

Working under pressure

Stock control

Team coordination

Time management

Consistency and presentation

Example · fictional candidate · Ribbon design · Use this design

Tips for a chef CV

Mention which sections you have experience running, such as starters, grill or pastry
List your food hygiene certificate level if you hold one
Give an example of working accurately and quickly under pressure during service
Mention experience training or supervising junior kitchen staff if applicable
Note any specific cuisines or menu styles you have strong experience with

Applying with a cover letter? See our chef cover letter example.