We are looking for a Care Home Chef tooversee and deliver food provision within a residential care home, Herewards House, in Maidenhead. To provide expertise in delivering high quality, nutritious food to up to 25 residents, whilst also ensuring budgets are adhered to, that H&S / HSE guidance is followed meticulously, and that the kitchen is stocked and cleaned appropriately.
This is a full-time position at 35 hours per week.
Shift: 7am – 2:30pm (Monday – Sunday).
Please note the interview stage will consist of a formal interview & a practical observation which will assess your kitchen skills such as organisation and hygiene standards. This will take place 11am - 1pm.
Main Responsibilities
- You'll be planning, preparing and cooking a variety of high-quality home cooked meals with fresh ingredients that meet the nutritional and dietary requirements of our residents.
- Cater to individual preferences, choices and specific needs, such as allergies, soft/pureed diets, low fat diets etc.
- Ensure that any residents that have dietary intolerances or allergies are dealt with properly and safely, to the best of the kitchen’s ability to do so.
- Develop new diverse dishes and oversee menus in line with the needs of the residents and care home.
- Ensure that the care home’s mealtime services are smoothly executed, that there is sufficient information available to residents and relatives about food being served and nutritional values, etc.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen by completing daily, weekly and monthly cleaning to a high standard.
- Collaborate with the care team to ensure meal times and menu choices are enjoyable and fulfilling.
- Ensure adherence to the home’s compliance with SFBB, HSE and H&S considerations.
- Manage the inventory, and provide weekly grocery lists to the manager to order stock as needed.
- Ensuring that all ingredients are fresh and properly stored.
- Complete admin work timely at the end of each shift including fridge/freezer temperature check, cleaning schedule, food temperature check, SFBB checks
- Oversee the maintenance of kitchen equipment and report repairs when needed.
- Ensure that action plans relating to monthly kitchen audits are carried out as appropriate.
- Attend mandatory annual trainings including safeguarding, food hygiene, fire safety, moving and handling, infection control, first aid, data protection and any other relevant additional trainings.
About you
- Proven experience as a chef, ideally in a care home or similar environment.
- IDDSI knowledge is advantageous
- Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation practices and nutrition
- Strong culinary skills with an understanding of various cooking methods and techniques.
- A recognised and appropriate qualification in food preparation/cooking, at least to NVQ level 2 & willingness to complete level 3.
- Basic certificate in Food hygiene.
- Knowledge of Health and Safety COSHH & HACCP regulations
- A personable and warm approach with a genuine interest in the wellbeing of residents
- Strong communication skills, ensuring clear interaction with team members, management and residents.
- Organised, clean and tidy
- Ability to multi-task, work under pressure and on own initiative in a fast paced environment.
- Physical ability to stand for extended periods
- Flexibility to work weekdays and weekends
What we offer:
- Supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Free parking
- 28 days annual leave
- Company pension
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- A chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our residents.
- A caring and compassionate team dedicated to excellence in care.
If this sounds like you and you’re looking for a fulfilling role that makes a genuine impact in the lives of others, this rewarding career is for you.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £13.50 per hour
Application question(s):
- Do you require sponsorship now or in the future?
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
