Zelfstandig werkend kok

About the role

Work as a chef in a relaxed atmosphere and still be home every evening—those are the perks of joining Next Kitchen in Nieuwegein. Our catering company stands out because we prepare everything from scratch using fresh ingredients and original concepts that you help create. We’re growing fast, so if you want to develop—whether as a chef or in another role—you’ll have plenty of opportunities.

As a chef at Next Kitchen, you handle the mise en place for a variety of concepts. Whether it’s lunch for a musical crew, appetizers for a reception, or an Italian buffet for an event with 2,000 guests, quality, customization, and originality are central. You’ll have ample space to experiment in the kitchen and contribute ideas for new dishes during our brainstorming days. We plan realistically: mornings start calmly with coffee and a clear briefing, then teams get to work—with breaks treated as sacred. For extra variety, you might occasionally travel to locations to cook live or assist with serving. From behind the scenes at Studio 100 to a beautiful castle or a multinational’s staff party, you’ll experience diverse settings.

What makes this job special

• Day shifts starting at 7:00 AM, so you’re home on time.
• Plenty of variety: every client and assignment is different, and we always deliver custom work, keeping your role surprising and educational.
• Our energetic company is growing, and you’ll grow with it. Want to specialize or develop leadership skills? We support you with internal or external training.
• You’ll join a driven team of about 25 colleagues—a great mix of experience, backgrounds, and ages (25–50). Whether it’s the sous-chef, dishwasher, owner, or marketer, everyone pitches in when needed, with fun and camaraderie always a priority.
• Legendary team outings, like a murder-mystery weekend in the Ardennes or indoor laser tag in our own creatively repurposed kitchens.

Responsibilities

• Prepare mise en place for diverse catering concepts, ensuring quality, customization, and originality.
• Experiment with new dishes and contribute ideas during brainstorming sessions.
• Work in teams with realistic planning, starting mornings with coffee and a clear briefing.
• Occasionally travel to event locations to cook live or assist with serving.

Requirements

• MBO-level education (vocational) and at least 3 years of experience as a self-sufficient chef.
• Strong verbal communication skills in Dutch with colleagues and guests.
• A driver’s license.

You thrive on combining craftsmanship with creativity, enjoy brainstorming new dishes or presentation styles, and work meticulously to ensure every dish looks perfect. Whether following a strict schedule or adapting last-minute, you stay flexible and calm. Above all, you share our passion for great, fresh, and surprising food.

Benefits

• Gross monthly salary between €2,650 and €3,200 for a 40-hour workweek.
• 8% holiday pay and 25 vacation days.
• Comprehensive benefits under the Horeca CAO, including a solid pension plan and travel expense reimbursement.
• One-year temporary contract with the prospect of a permanent position.
• Daily well-prepared lunches and meals in our in-house restaurant.
• A pleasant and stimulating work environment with a strong focus on work-life balance.
• Ample opportunities for professional and personal development.
• Hosting your own event? Borrow our equipment for free and purchase products at cost price.

Schedule

Day shifts starting at 7:00 AM, Monday through Friday (or as scheduled for events).