About West Dean 

West Dean is internationally recognised as a centre of excellence for art, design, craft, and conservation education.  The work of staff and students, frequently rooted in traditional skills, is both innovative and world leading.

Our programmes are delivered across two sites in the UK:  West Dean, the idyllic Grade II listed rural campus in the stunning South Downs near Chichester (West Sussex), and our new, prestigious Bloomsbury site in the heart of London.  These inspiring locations provide the ideal environment in which students can work across disciplines and forge exciting new collaborations. 

We are making bold and ambitious moves as an organisation with the expansion of our portfolio, the redevelopment of our estate and our strategic push on diversity and sustainability. 

About the Role

We are looking for a dedicated and hardworking Kitchen Porter to join our Food Production team. As a Kitchen Porter, you will work across our various food outlets on the West Dean Sussex campus. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in maintaining cleanliness and efficiency in the kitchen.

Key Responsibilities

• Keep all kitchen areas and equipment gleaming and ready for service

• Operate dishwashers and other kitchen machinery with confidence

• Maintain top-tier hygiene and safety standards at all times

• Support food outlets across campus—from hot counters to drinks stations to salad bars

• Handle and store food deliveries, ensuring everything is checked and organised

• Take ownership of the wash-up area, ensuring pots, pans and utensils are cleaned and returned promptly

• Keep dining and clearing stations clean, tidy and welcoming

• Complete general and deep cleaning tasks, including ovens, fryers and filters

• Ensure rubbish and recycling are disposed of responsibly

• Assist with mopping, sweeping and maintaining a spotless workspace

About You

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• A positive, “can-do” attitude

• Strong teamwork and communication skills

• The ability to stay organised under pressure

• A commitment to exceptional cleanliness and hygiene

• Reliability, enthusiasm, and a genuine desire to support the wider team

Contract & Hours 

This is a permanent, full-time role working 35 hours per week. Part-time applications will also be considered. 


Excellent Benefits 

• Generous contributory pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Employee Assistant Programme 
• Mental health first aiders
• Discounted places on short courses
• Free entry into West Dean Gardens
• Discounts on accommodation 
• Complimentary hot drinks, fruit & biscuits
• Free on-site parking at West Dean site
• Cycle to work scheme 

Join West Dean, where every day brings new energy, new people, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. Apply now via our careers page. 

• Please view the KITCHEN PORTER JOB PACK 12 2025 document (opens in a pop up)