Shoot Private Chef

What is a shoot private chef?

A shoot chef, also known as a “game shooting chef”, is a specialised role where they work on a shooting estate, in hunting grounds, to prepare freshly hunted wild game. The role demands butchery skills of fresh meat from animals like pheasant, grouse, venison and hare.

Whilst butchery is a major component of the job, other aspects may include smoking, brining and preserving meats for long-term use. They will need a strong understanding of flavour profiles and pairings to deliver gourmet meals with the freshly caught game. As well as knowing how to properly cook the meats for optimal flavour, bringing out the freshness in the food.

This role is seasonal; chefs will work in the first and last months of the year during game season. Some private shooting chefs will work independently, living on the property and being available at all hours of the day. Whilst others may work in tandem with other private chefs on a rota, working anywhere between 6-14 hours.

What skills does a shoot private chef need?

A game shoot private chef needs to possess a range of skills; this role is demanding of technical abilities as well as physical strength when processing the freshly caught game.

• Butchery skills for game animals
• Adept in a kitchen environment
• Outstanding personal and kitchen hygiene, as well as an ability to maintain safety regulations
• A passion for the culinary arts
• Excellent organisation and management skills (on timing and checking consistency of food quality)
• Possessing a creative flair

What salary does a shoot private chef earn?

The salary a shoot private chef can earn will depend on the type of position they have, whether they live-in or work part-time. In the UK, the current average falls between £30,000 to £70,000.