Commis Chef Job Description (Commis 1, 2, 3) Duties, Salary, Skills & Template
A Commis Chef is an entry-level to junior kitchen professional who works under experienced chefs (Chef de Partie, Sous Chef, Head Chef). The role is divided into levels based on experience, skill, and responsibility:
- Commis 3 (C3) – Beginner / trainee
- Commis 2 (C2) – Intermediate
- Commis 1 (C1) – Advanced junior chef
1. Commis Chef Job Description Template
Ready-to-use template
Commis Chef Job Description Template
Copy, edit, and use this premium template for hospitality hiring.
Job Summary
We are seeking a passionate and detail-oriented Commis Chef to support our kitchen team. The ideal candidate will assist in food preparation, maintain hygiene standards, and contribute to delivering high-quality dishes in a fast-paced environment.
This role is ideal for candidates looking to build a long-term culinary career and gain hands-on experience in professional kitchens.
Key Responsibilities
Food Preparation
- Wash, peel, cut, and prepare ingredients
- Measure and portion ingredients accurately
- Assist in cooking basic dishes and sauces
Kitchen Operations
- Support Chef de Partie during service
- Ensure mise en place is completed before service
- Assist in plating dishes as per standards
Inventory & Stock
- Receive and check deliveries
- Store ingredients properly and rotate stock
- Discard expired or spoiled items
Hygiene & Safety
- Maintain clean workstation at all times
- Follow food safety and hygiene standards
- Prevent cross-contamination
Team Support
- Follow instructions from senior chefs
- Communicate during service
- Assist team during peak hours
Commis Chef Responsibilities:
Real Kitchen Responsibilities
- Handle pressure during peak service
- Maintain speed + quality simultaneously
- Manage prep timing before service
Operational Duties
- Support cost control (reduce wastage)
- Maintain station readiness
- Follow SOPs and kitchen systems
Requirements
- Basic culinary knowledge or training
- Ability to work in fast-paced kitchen
- Knowledge of hygiene standards
- Physical stamina and discipline
Skills
- Knife skills
- Time management
- Teamwork
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work under pressure
Commis 1 vs 2 vs 3: Key Differences
| Level | Experience | Responsibility Level | Skills Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis 3 | 0–1 year | Basic | Prep work, hygiene, learning |
| Commis 2 | 1–3 years | Moderate | Cooking, station support |
| Commis 1 | 3–5 years | High | Managing section, mentoring |
Commis 3 Job Description (Entry-Level)
Overview
Commis 3 is the starting point for aspiring chefs. You’ll assist with basic kitchen tasks and learn professional cooking standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in food preparation (cutting, peeling, washing)
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards
- Support senior chefs during service
- Store ingredients properly
- Follow instructions and recipes accurately
Required Skills
- Basic culinary knowledge
- Willingness to learn
- Teamwork and discipline
- Time management
Salary Insights (India & Global)
- India: ₹10,000 – ₹18,000/month
- UAE: AED 1,200 – 2,000/month
- UK: £18,000 – £22,000/year
Commis 2 Job Description (Intermediate Level)
Overview
Commis 2 chefs handle more responsibility, including cooking and managing small sections under supervision.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook dishes as per standards
- Assist Chef de Partie
- Monitor stock and report shortages
- Maintain kitchen safety and hygiene
- Train junior staff (Commis 3)
Required Skills
- Knowledge of cooking techniques
- Ability to follow recipes independently
- Basic inventory understanding
- Communication skills
Salary Insights
- India: ₹18,000 – ₹30,000/month
- UAE: AED 2,000 – 3,500/month
- UK: £22,000 – £28,000/year
Commis 1 Job Description (Advanced Junior Chef)
Overview
Commis 1 is a highly skilled junior chef who can independently manage a section and support leadership.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a specific kitchen section
- Ensure food quality and presentation
- Train and supervise junior chefs
- Assist in menu preparation
- Maintain inventory and reduce waste
Required Skills
- Strong culinary expertise
- Leadership and mentoring ability
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Knowledge of food safety standards
Salary Insights
- India: ₹30,000 – ₹50,000/month
- UAE: AED 3,500 – 5,000/month
- UK: £28,000 – £35,000/year
Career Progression Path
A Commis Chef role is the foundation of a long-term culinary career:
Commis 3 → Commis 2 → Commis 1 → Chef de Partie → Sous Chef → Head Chef
Tip: Upskilling in international cuisines, plating, and kitchen management can accelerate promotions.
Resume Tips for Commis Chefs
A strong resume can make a big difference in hospitality hiring.
What to Include
- Professional Summary: Highlight your level (C1/C2/C3)
- Skills Section: Knife skills, hygiene, cuisine expertise
- Experience: Focus on kitchen tasks and achievements
- Certifications: Food safety, culinary diploma
Sample Resume Summary
Commis 2 Chef with 2+ years of experience in multi-cuisine kitchens. Skilled in food preparation, maintaining hygiene standards, and assisting in high-volume service. Passionate about culinary excellence and team collaboration.
Top Skills Employers Look For
- Food safety & hygiene (HACCP knowledge)
- Knife skills & prep techniques
- Time management under pressure
- Teamwork and communication
- Adaptability in fast-paced kitchens
Common Hiring Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
For Employers
- ❌ Hiring without skill testing
- ❌ Ignoring attitude and teamwork
- ❌ Not defining role level clearly
✔️ Solution: Use structured interviews + practical trials
For Job Seekers
- ❌ Sending generic resumes
- ❌ Not showcasing hands-on skills
- ❌ Lack of certifications
✔️ Solution: Customize resume + highlight real kitchen experience
🧾 FAQ
What does a Commis Chef do?
A Commis Chef prepares ingredients, assists cooking, maintains hygiene, and supports kitchen operations.
What is the difference between Commis 1, 2, 3?
Commis 3: Beginner
Commis 2: Intermediate
Commis 1: Advanced
Is Commis Chef a good career?
Yes, it is the starting point for becoming a professional chef with strong growth opportunities.
What skills are required?
Cooking basics
Hygiene knowledge
Teamwork
Speed and discipline
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re starting as a Commis 3 or hiring a Commis 1, understanding these roles clearly can save time, reduce hiring mistakes, and improve kitchen performance.
The hospitality industry rewards skill, consistency, and passion—and the Commis pathway is your gateway to becoming a top chef.
