About the Role
Are you a Chef looking for a more rewarding role with better work–life balance?
We are looking for an experienced and passionate Chef to join our team at a well-established, family-run nursing home in Kilmarnock. This is a unique opportunity to step into a fulfilling role where your work has a direct and meaningful impact on residents’ daily lives.
Unlike many hospitality roles, this position offers consistent hours, minimal late evenings, and a healthier work–life balance, with most shifts finishing by 6:30pm and every second weekend off.
You will work alongside another Chef in a shared senior role, ensuring full kitchen coverage across the week while maintaining high standards.
Working Pattern
This role follows a structured two-week rota:
- Week 1: Monday, Tuesday, Saturday, Sunday (9:30am – 6:30pm)
- Week 2: Tuesday (9:30am – 5:30pm), Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (9:30am – 6:30pm)
Some flexibility is required from time to time to help cover holidays or absence within the team.
About Us
We are a family-owned and operated care home providing high-quality, person-led care for up to 70 residents. Our catering team plays a vital role in delivering not just nutrition, but enjoyment, comfort and dignity through food.
What Makes This Role Different
- ✅ Finish by 6:30pm every day
- ✅ Every second weekend off
- ✅ Structured, predictable rota
- ✅ A genuinely rewarding role where you see the difference you make
- ✅ Opportunity to build relationships with residents and tailor menus
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and deliver nutritious, high-quality meals for residents
- Work with fresh, seasonal produce to create balanced menus
- Engage with residents to understand their preferences and dietary needs
- Support menu planning and ongoing development
- Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and kitchen organisation
- Ensure compliance with food safety procedures (HACCP)
- Assist with stock control, ordering and working within budget
- Support kitchen audits and documentation
- Step up to manage the kitchen when the other Chef is off
About You
We’re looking for someone who is:
- Passionate about cooking and delivering quality food
- Warm, approachable and genuinely interested in residents’ wellbeing
- Comfortable working in a busy kitchen environment
- Reliable and confident working both independently and as part of a team
Essential:
- Previous cooking experience (minimum 1 year)
- Relevant qualification (City & Guilds, NVQ/SVQ or equivalent)
- Good understanding of nutrition
- Knowledge of food safety and HACCP
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly rate from £15.36
- Company pension
- On-site parking
- Supportive, friendly team environment
- A role where your work is valued and appreciated
Pay: £15.36 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
