Senior Kitchen Porter

Position OverviewThe Senior Kitchen Porter at Dunmore House Hotel is a vital support role that ensures the smooth operation of our Michelin-recognised kitchen. This position goes beyond traditional porter duties, offering responsibility for maintaining the highest standards of kitchen hygiene, equipment care, and operational support across all service periods, from intimate fine dining to large-scale banqueting events.Ideal Candidate ProfileWe are seeking a reliable, hardworking professional who takes pride in maintaining exceptional back-of-house standards. This role is perfect for someone who understands that kitchen excellence depends on flawless support systems and who wants to be part of a respected culinary team in a unique Irish setting.Why This Opportunity Is Perfect For You

• Michelin Guide Environment: Work behind the scenes in a Michelin-recognised establishment, gaining experience in the exacting standards required in fine-dining kitchens.
• Varied Experience: Support diverse kitchen operations – from intimate fine dining to large-scale banqueting (weddings and events for up to 250 guests) and casual bar service. This variety keeps the role engaging and develops broad hospitality skills.
• Team Recognition: Be part of a respected kitchen brigade where every role is valued and essential to the hotel's success.
• Cultural Exchange: Join an international team in Ireland, experiencing Irish hospitality culture whilst bringing your own work ethic and perspective.
• Winter Break Advantage: The 8-week paid closure period (January & February) is ideal for overseas candidates – return home to visit family or simply recharge. You'll continue to receive full salary during this time.
• Stability & Security: 12-month salaried contract with structured leave, providing financial security and work-life balance.

Who Will Excel In This Role

• Experienced kitchen porters from quality hotel or fine-dining backgrounds who understand the importance of impeccable hygiene standards
• Reliable, conscientious professionals who take pride in their work and maintain high standards even under pressure
• Team players who work well with chefs and front-of-house staff, understanding how their role supports the entire operation
• Those seeking stability and career development within a respected hospitality environment
• Professionals who value the unique opportunity for extended paid time off to maintain connections with home

If you're a dedicated professional who understands that kitchen excellence depends on exceptional support systems, and you're looking for a stable role with a respected employer, this position offers an excellent opportunity.Key ResponsibilitiesDaily Operations

• Dish & Equipment Care: Maintain all kitchen equipment, pots, pans, utensils, and service ware to the highest standards of cleanliness.
• Kitchen Hygiene: Ensure all kitchen areas, including floors, surfaces, and storage areas, are kept immaculately clean throughout service.
• Waste Management: Manage kitchen waste efficiently, including proper segregation and disposal of food waste, recyclables, and general waste.
• Stock Support: Assist with receiving deliveries, storing supplies correctly, and maintaining stock rotation systems.
• Service Support: Provide essential support during service periods, ensuring chefs have clean equipment readily available.

Senior Responsibilities

• Team Leadership: Provide guidance and support to junior kitchen porters, setting standards and ensuring consistency.
• Equipment Maintenance: Take ownership of equipment care, reporting maintenance needs and ensuring proper use of dishwashing and cleaning equipment.
• Standards Monitoring: Act as the senior point of contact for kitchen cleanliness standards, conducting regular checks and addressing any issues promptly.
• Stock Management: Oversee cleaning supplies inventory, ensuring adequate stock levels and proper storage.
• Opening/Closing Duties: Take responsibility for opening or closing kitchen porter areas, ensuring all systems are properly set up or secured.

Health & Safety

• Hygiene Standards: Maintain strict adherence to food safety and hygiene regulations, including proper chemical handling and storage.
• Safety Protocols: Follow all health and safety procedures, including proper use of protective equipment and safe manual handling practices.
• HACCP Compliance: Support kitchen HACCP systems through proper cleaning schedules and temperature monitoring where required.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Minimum 2-3 years' experience as a kitchen porter in a quality hotel or fine-dining environment
• Strong understanding of commercial kitchen hygiene standards and equipment care
• Experience working in high-volume, fast-paced kitchen environments
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to maintain standards under pressure
• Strong English language skills for effective communication with kitchen team
• Food safety awareness training (or willingness to complete upon appointment)
• Physical fitness and ability to stand for extended periods and lift kitchen equipment

Desired Qualities

• Reliable and punctual with excellent attendance record
• Proactive approach to identifying and addressing cleaning needs
• Team-oriented with a positive, helpful attitude
• Takes pride in maintaining high standards consistently
• Calm and efficient under pressure during busy service periods
• Respectful of kitchen hierarchy whilst being a valued team member

Working EnvironmentThis role involves:

• Working across breakfast, lunch, and dinner services as required
• Supporting both fine-dining and banqueting operations
• Shift patterns that may include evenings, weekends, and bank holidays
• Physical work including standing for long periods, lifting, and repetitive tasks
• Working in a hot, humid environment typical of commercial kitchens

Success MetricsPerformance in this role will be measured by:

• Consistent maintenance of exceptional cleanliness standards
• Reliability and punctuality
• Effectiveness in supporting smooth kitchen operations during service
• Care and maintenance of kitchen equipment
• Positive feedback from kitchen team members
• Adherence to health and safety standards

Salary & BenefitsA competitive salary package will be offered based on experience, including:

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
• Holiday entitlement of 20+ days
• Paid during 8-week winter shutdown (January & February)
• Quality staff accommodation available with sea views, all bills included (recently renovated)
• Meals on duty
• Staff discount programme
• Opportunity to work in a Michelin-recognised environment

Application ProcessQualified candidates should submit a CV and cover letter detailing their kitchen porter experience and explaining why they're interested in this senior role at Dunmore House Hotel. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with the Executive Head Chef and hotel management.Job Type: Full-timePay: €13.50-€16.00 per hourBenefits:

• Company pension
• On-site parking

Work Location: In personReference ID: Senior Kitchen Porter
Expected start date: 02/03/2026