Chef – Daytime Hours Only

We’re looking for a talented, passionate chef to join our small, friendly kitchen team here at The Balloon Tree Farm Shop & Café.

Why work with us?

• Daytime hours only – no evenings or split shifts
• 35–40 hours per week
• Pay: £12.50 – £14.00 per hour (depending on experience)
• Be part of an award-winning, family-run business with a strong local reputation
• Free staff meals & shop/café discounts

The role
Working under our Kitchen Manager, you’ll prepare fresh, homecooked dishes using seasonal produce — much of it grown right here on our farm. You’ll also have the chance to influence our daily specials board and upcoming Autumn menu.
You’ll take responsibility for food safety and health & safety procedures in the kitchen, while supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the café service.

About you

• Previous chef/cook experience (café, pub or restaurant)
• A passion for cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients
• A reliable team player who takes pride in their work
• Strong knowledge of kitchen health & safety

This is a fantastic opportunity for a chef who wants a better work-life balance — working with fresh, local ingredients in a welcoming, supportive environment.

A driving license is preferred, as we are located just outside of York. We are on a bus route, so exceptions may be made for the right candidate.

At The Balloon Tree, we believe our people are just as important as our produce. We’re on the lookout for a Farm Shop Assistant to join our friendly, hardworking team and help us give our customers the warm welcome they know us for.

About The Balloon Tree
We’re a family-run farm shop and café in the heart of Yorkshire, famous for our homegrown strawberries, seasonal produce, and handcrafted treats. Our shop is brimming with local produce and artisan goods, and we’re passionate about supporting fellow local businesses. Whether it’s a loyal local popping in for their weekly shop or a day-tripper discovering us for the first time, our goal is always the same: to make every visit special.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Providing a welcoming, friendly, and helpful service to every customer
• Serving at the till and preparing barista-style drinks (training given if needed)
• Stocking shelves and creating attractive displays
• Helping to keep the shop clean, tidy, and inviting
• Supporting stock management — restocking, lifting boxes, and checking freshness
• Following food safety & hygiene guidelines to keep our shop safe

What We’re Looking For

• Someone with a passion for people and great customer service
• A team player with a positive outlook (and a good sense of humour!)
• Experience in customer service is ideal, though full training is provided
• Barista experience is a bonus, but not essential
• An interest in food, farming, and all things local

Why Work With Us?
Working at The Balloon Tree means being part of a team that values friendliness, teamwork, and quality. We’re proud of our welcoming atmosphere, our strong community ties, and the fact that many of our team members stay with us for years. No two days are the same here, and that’s all part of the fun.

Hours
28–35 hours per week, day shifts only, with some weekend work. Additional hours may be available. Flexibility is important.

How to Apply
If you’d like to be part of The Balloon Tree family, we’d love to hear from you!
Please email your CV and a short cover note to info@theballoontree.co.uk