Kitchen Porter – Part Time – Luton

Website Compass Group

Job Summary: Kitchen Porter (CH&CO)

Compass Group UK&I is looking for a dedicated and energetic Kitchen Porter to join the CH&CO team in Luton. In this role, you will be the backbone of the kitchen, ensuring that everything from cleanliness to food preparation runs seamlessly. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment with a company that celebrates individuality and offers clear pathways for career progression. If you are a reliable team player with a “can-do” attitude, we want to hear from you.


Key Responsibilities

  • Kitchen Maintenance: Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness throughout the kitchen, ensuring all areas are sanitized and organized.

  • Chef Support: Work quickly to ensure the culinary team has all the equipment and clean utensils needed to prepare fresh dishes.

  • Food & Drink Prep: Assist in the preparation of fresh food and perfectly blended drinks to delight our customers.

  • Compliance: Strictly adhere to all Food Handling, Hygiene, and Health & Safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment.

  • Brand Representation: Act as a positive ambassador for Compass Group UK&I, delivering high-quality customer care.

Requirements

  • Attributes: Adaptable, motivated, and able to work effectively under pressure.

  • Communication: Strong communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships with the kitchen team.

  • Professionalism: Exceptional timekeeping and reliability are essential.

  • Experience: Previous experience in a customer care or kitchen environment is beneficial but a proactive attitude is most important.

Salary and Schedule

  • Pay: £12.21 per hour.

  • Hours: Part-time, contracted to 28 hours per week.

  • Shift Pattern: Primarily daytime shifts across Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Benefits and Perks

  • Development: Access to great operational training and personal development opportunities.

  • Financial Security: Life assurance scheme.

  • Wellbeing: Access to a comprehensive wellbeing strategy, including an Employee Assistance Programme.

  • Lifestyle: Holiday purchase scheme and access to high street discount vouchers.

  • Culture: Regular social events and a diverse, inclusive working environment.

Employer Information

  • Employer: CH&CO (Part of Compass Group UK&I)

  • Location: Luton, United Kingdom

  • Job Reference: com/1602/42209001/52761084/BU


Market Context: Kitchen & Hospitality Wages (2026)

The hospitality sector in Luton remains competitive, with Kitchen Porter roles offering a steady entry point into the culinary industry.

Role Tier Estimated Hourly Rate
Kitchen Porter (Standard) £11.50 – £12.50
Senior Kitchen Porter / Assistant £12.50 – £13.50
Commis Chef £13.00 – £14.50+

Note: The rate of £12.21 per hour is highly competitive for the region, especially when paired with a 28-hour contract and a comprehensive benefits package.

Compass Group is the UK’s largest contract catering and support services provider, with a major footprint in Luton. They do not operate out of a single public office but instead manage the “behind-the-scenes” hospitality, cleaning, and facilities for thousands of sites, including schools, hospitals, and corporate offices. In Luton, they are particularly active at London Luton Airport and within local primary and secondary schools through their education-focused brand, Chartwells. Their culture is high-energy and service-led, emphasizing diversity, social mobility, and providing nutritious, sustainable food in fast-paced environments.

Key Company Highlights

Feature Details
Specialization Contract catering, FM, and hospitality services
Luton Sectors Education (Chartwells), Aviation (ESS/CH&CO), Healthcare
Service Model Managed on-site catering and support at 5,000+ UK locations
Culture “People-first,” diverse, and focused on career progression
Luton Presence Major staffing at Luton Airport and Luton Borough schools

Important Context for Candidates

  • Working at the Airport: Compass Group operates many of the food and beverage outlets at London Luton Airport under various licensed brands. If you apply for a role here, you are often part of their ESS or CH&CO divisions.

  • Education Roles: Through Chartwells, they manage the school dinners and kitchen staffing for many schools in Bedfordshire. These roles often offer “term-time only” contracts, which are popular for those seeking a work-life balance that aligns with school holidays.

  • Direct Employment: You are a direct employee of Compass Group (or one of its subsidiaries), not an agency worker, meaning you receive internal benefits and training.

To apply for this job please visit www.compass-group.com.