Relief Chef

Introduction

This job description outlines the key responsibilities, expectations, and personal qualities required for the role of Relief Chef at Purple Ski. While it covers the core duties, it is not exhaustive. Flexibility and a positive, can-do attitude are essential. You may be asked to take on additional tasks as needed to ensure our guests have an exceptional holiday experience—one they’ll want to repeat and recommend.

Working in a chalet is all about being part of a team. Flexibility, collaboration, and initiative are vital.

You will work hard—but you will also have time to ski or snowboard, socialise with guests, and enjoy life in the resort.

It’s not just about our guests. We also value our relationships with chalet owners. Every property must be treated with the utmost care and returned in an “as new” condition at the end of the season.

Overview

The Relief Chef plays a vital role in supporting chalet operations, stepping in for designated chalet chefs on their day off. Responsibilities include preparing a cooked breakfast, afternoon tea, and a family-style evening meal. On changeover days, the Relief Chef assists with cleaning and preparing the chalet. They also contribute to the smooth running of all Purple Ski activities, ensuring that the company's high standards are consistently upheld.

Previous Experience

• Ability to cook to a high standard is essential – with a focus on hearty, high-quality home-style meals rather than fine dining.
• Substantial hands-on experience in the hotel or catering industry (e.g., housekeeping, waiting staff), preferably in high-end establishments.
• Demonstrable and significant experience in child care is essential.
• Experience driving large vehicles, especially on snow or abroad, is highly desirable.
• A good level of spoken French is desirable.

Main Duties

General Responsibilities

• Create a warm, friendly, and welcoming atmosphere for all guests, including children.
• Be available to answer questions or resolve issues, always aiming to exceed guest expectations and ensure they have the best possible ski holiday, on and off the slopes.
• Be knowledgeable about the resort, local services, and Purple Ski policies (via the website and staff manual).
• Refer any guest complaints to the Resort Manager promptly.
• Ensure smooth handover to and from the dedicated chalet team to maintain service standards.
• On changeover days, assist guests with ski hire, lessons, and equipment servicing.
• Help guests use personal laundry facilities as needed.

Relief Chef Duties

• Coordinating closely with the chalet chef for smooth handovers.
• Preparing, serving, and clearing away breakfast.
• Setting out and clearing afternoon tea.
• Cooking a family-style evening meal if required.
• Cooking for self and other staff working in the chalet that day.
• Preparing, serving, and clearing children’s tea.
• Cleaning the kitchen, equipment, and dining area, ensuring all areas are spotless after each service.
• Cleaning food storage areas, including fridges and freezers, when needed.
• Babysitting as required until 11 pm and performing evening turn-down service (refreshing bedrooms and bathrooms).
• If adult guests dine in, providing support including preparing accompaniments, serving, and washing up.
• Ensuring the chalet is warm and inviting for guests returning from the slopes.
• Clearing away pre-dinner drinks and maintaining a fully stocked guest bar/fridge.
• Keeping a fresh fruit bowl available to guests at all times.
• Completing chalet laundry as needed.
• Supporting the chef with handovers to maintain consistency and quality.

The Relief Chef may also be assigned to cover for a Chalet Manager or Chalet Assistant when needed, working as a housekeeper and waitress to ensure service and cleanliness standards are upheld.

Additional Duties

• Preparing and packing transfer picnics for guests arriving or departing via Purple Ski Transfers.
• Reporting and arranging repairs or replacements for household equipment via the Maintenance team.
• Providing backup for other chalet staff in case of illness or emergencies.
• Supporting performance reviews and staff appraisals throughout the season.
• Carrying out other tasks as requested by the Resort Manager.

Requirements

• Ability to cook to a reasonable standard is essential (good home cooking, not "fine dining").
• Strong culinary skills with creativity and consistency across a range of cuisines.
• Excellent understanding and application of food hygiene and kitchen safety practices.
• Adaptable and quick to familiarise with new kitchens and team dynamics.
• Team-oriented with a proactive, guest-focused mindset.
• Calm, professional, and resourceful under pressure.
• High attention to detail and pride in delivering exceptional service.