We are looking for a reliable and enthusiastic Assistant Cook and Chef to join our care home kitchen team. The successful candidate will support the Cook/Chef in preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals for residents while maintaining high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and safety.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with previous experience in a care home, nursing home, healthcare or catering environment who is passionate about providing high-quality meals that meet residents' dietary needs.
Main Responsibilities
- Assist with the preparation and cooking of breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.
- Prepare meals in accordance with residents' dietary requirements, allergies and preferences.
- Support the Cook/Chef in planning and serving nutritious, balanced menus.
- Ensure food is prepared, stored and served in line with food safety regulations.
- Maintain high standards of kitchen cleanliness and hygiene at all times.
- Wash utensils, kitchen equipment and work surfaces.
- Receive, check and correctly store food deliveries.
- Monitor food stock and report shortages to the Cook or Kitchen Manager.
- Assist with stock rotation and ensure food is used within expiry dates.
- Follow all infection prevention and control procedures.
- Ensure compliance with Health & Safety, Food Hygiene and HACCP requirements.
- Work effectively as part of the kitchen and care home team.
- Provide a friendly and professional service to residents, visitors and colleagues.
- Carry out other reasonable duties as requested by the Cook or Home Manager.
Essential Experience and Skills
- Previous experience working as an Assistant Cook, Kitchen Assistant or Cook.
- Experience within a care home, nursing home, healthcare, hospitality or catering environment is desirable.
- Basic knowledge of food hygiene and safe food handling practices.
- Understanding of special diets, including texture-modified diets, diabetic diets and allergy awareness.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Reliable, organised and able to work in a busy kitchen.
- Ability to follow instructions and maintain high standards.
- Flexible and willing to work weekends and bank holidays when required.
Desirable
- Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate.
- Previous experience preparing meals for older adults or vulnerable people.
- Knowledge of HACCP procedures.
- Basic understanding of infection prevention and control.
- Manual handling awareness.
What We Offer
- Permanent, full-time position.
- Competitive salary.
- Workplace pension.
- Paid annual leave.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Supportive management team.
- Friendly and welcoming working environment.
- Opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of our residents.
Pay: £25,420.00-£39,834.34 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
Work Location: In person
