A chef in the military is responsible for preparing and cooking meals for service personnel, whether in barracks, on training exercises, or during active deployments. This role goes beyond standard catering as military chefs must be able to cook in challenging environments, sometimes using basic equipment or field kitchens. They play a vital part in maintaining morale and nutrition for the troops. Training is provided by the armed forces, covering everything from basic food hygiene to advanced cookery techniques. Military chefs also have opportunities to gain civilian catering qualifications and progress to supervisory roles or specialise in nutrition or logistics.
Military chefs in the British Army typically start on a salary of around £18,600 per year during training, rising to £23,400 after training is complete.
There are approximately 1,200 chef roles across the British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force.
Military chefs often work shifts, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, and may work 37 to 48 hours per week depending on deployment.
Prepares meals for sailors and officers on ships and submarines, ensuring the crew is well-fed during deployments at sea.
Specialises in cooking nutritious meals for soldiers in field conditions, often using mobile kitchens during operations and training exercises.
Works in Royal Air Force messes, preparing meals and catering for service personnel, including special events and formal dinners.
Research what a Military Chef does, including daily tasks, work environments, and challenges.
Military Chefs do much more than just cook. They are responsible for menu planning, catering for large groups, and maintaining hygiene to strict standards. It is important to know that you may work in a variety of locations, from permanent bases to field camps and even on deployment. Talking to current or former military chefs and reading official military recruitment materials will help you gain valuable insight.
Learn about the different branches of the UK Armed Forces and their catering roles.
The British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force all have catering branches, each with slightly different environments and requirements. For example, Royal Navy chefs may work at sea, while Army chefs might be in field kitchens. Visit official websites like army.mod.uk, royalnavy.mod.uk, and raf.mod.uk to compare roles.
Make sure you meet the minimum educational requirements, such as GCSEs.
Most branches require at least GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths, and sometimes in Food Technology or similar subjects. If you do not have these qualifications, consider resitting exams or taking equivalent courses at a local college. Good communication and teamwork skills are also important.
Prepare to pass the physical and medical tests required for entry into the Armed Forces.
All recruits must pass a medical examination and fitness assessment. These tests ensure you are healthy and physically capable of fulfilling your role, including working long hours and sometimes in difficult conditions. Training beforehand can help you meet the required standards.
Submit your application to your chosen branch and attend interviews or assessments.
The application process often includes online forms, interviews, and aptitude tests. You may be asked about your motivation for joining and your understanding of the chef role. Prepare carefully and be honest about your reasons for choosing a military career.
Attend initial military training to learn core skills and discipline.
All new recruits complete a basic training course, which covers military discipline, fitness, teamwork, and basic fieldcraft. This gives you the foundation needed for a military career and helps you adapt to military life.
Receive specialist training in catering and food preparation within your chosen branch.
After basic training, you will start your chef training at a military catering school. This includes learning to prepare meals for large numbers, food hygiene, and managing kitchen operations in a military context. You may also receive additional qualifications, such as NVQs in catering.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Chef (Military). Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A 'Chef (Military)' is a culinary specialist within the armed forces, focusing on preparing meals for military personnel. Similarly, a 'Soldier' is a member of the military with a broad range of duties, including discipline, teamwork, and adherence to strict protocols, which aligns with the structured environment and discipline required for military chefs.
You can get into this job through:
You can apply to join the army through an HM Forces Serviceperson Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.
You apply directly to the army to find the best apprenticeship route for you. This will depend on your qualifications and which service role you're interested in, for example, engineering, health or logistics.
You can join the Army Reserve to get experience of what life is like in the regular army. You'll also learn new skills at the same time.
You'll need to:
If you're between 12 and 18 years old, you can join the Army Cadet Force.
You can apply directly to join the army. You do not need any specific qualifications unless you're applying for a technical role like engineering or communications.
You'll also need to be:
If your application is accepted, you'll be invited to talk to someone at your local army careers centre about the opportunities available to you. You'll then attend a 2-day assessment, which includes medical and fitness tests.
You'll find more information about becoming a soldier from Army Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
