Grow a career in the food industry
Working within the food industry can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path for those passionate about cooking. In honour of National Apprenticeship Week Inspire ATA are breaking down how to start a career in the culinary arts.
What skills are needed to work in the food industry
To get a job in the food industry you will need a combination of skills and experience. Skills required include:
Teamwork & Communication
Essential for coordinating with colleagues and ensuring smooth operations.
Adaptability
Ability to handle stress and changing demands in busy settings.
Attention to Detail
Crucial for accuracy in recipes, orders, and quality control.
Work experience
Many organisations will require new staff to come with a certain level of previous experience to the role, which can make it a tricky industry to get into. However, the food industry benefits greatly from apprenticeships as an entry level point allowing individuals to gain experience while they grow their skills and knowledge of the role.
Apprenticeships in the food industry
Inspire ATA has a range of apprenticeships available to help individuals entre the food industry. These include:
Production Chef Level 2
Production chefs work as part of a team in time-bound and often challenging kitchen environments, for example, schools, hospitals, the Armed Forces, care homes and high street casual dining or pub kitchens. They report to the Senior Production chef or appropriate line manager.
Commis Chef Level 2
A commis chef is the most common starting position in many kitchens and in principle the most junior culinary role. A commis chef prepares food and carries out basic cooking tasks under the supervision of a more senior chef.
Discover Commis Chef opportunities
Food and Drink Process Operator Level 2
Food and Drink Process Operators work in one of the largest, most dynamic and fastest growing sectors of industry. Every day, producers, manufacturers and retailers make and sell millions of innovative food products to consumers in the UK and around the world.
Work as a Food and Drink Process Operator
Chef de Partie Level 3
A Chef de Partie is responsible for running a specific section of the kitchen. This type of chef usually manages a small team of workers, which they must keep organised so that dishes go out on time and the work area remains clean and orderly. However, in smaller kitchens a Chef de Partie may work independently as the only person in their section.
Want to discover more apprenticeship opportunities? Browse all our programmes.
Published 13/02/2026
