Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced, part-time Sous Chef to join our dynamic catering team. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, extensive culinary expertise, and a passion for delivering exceptional food experiences. Experience of working in the care sector would be highly desirable.
As a vital part of our kitchen operation, the Sous Chef will support the Catering Manager in managing daily kitchen activities, supervising staff, and ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality are maintained. This role offers an excellent opportunity for career progression within a reputable nursing home establishment.
The successful candidate will be expected to work two 7.30 - 4pm shifts per week, plus one evening shift 3pm - 7pm. The post-holder will be required to work alternate weekends. The contract will be for 21 hours per week but there will be opportunities to work extra hours as overtime.
Duties
- Assist the Catering Manager in overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring a smooth and efficient service is provided, and helping to create excellent meals every day.
- Oversee the duties of junior catering staff, ensuring that tasks are completed on time, and standards are maintained.
- Assist with the induction of all new catering staff, ensuring they complete their mandatory training. Ensure staff are trained in our ways of working including following all of the homes food & hygiene policies, the uniform policy (i.e. wearing of the correct uniform and no jewellery), and health & safety policies.
- Manage catering inventory, assist with stock rotation, follow the FIFO method, and support the Catering Manager with food orders within set budgets.
- Ensure compliance with date labelling, allergen labelling, and the colour coding system. Observe catering practice of junior staff, taking corrective action to address any concerns over procedures not being followed.
- Supervise and manage kitchen staff, including hands-on catering training, scheduling, and performance monitoring.
- Prepare and cook a variety of dishes, maintaining consistency with established recipes and presentation standards. Provide high quality meals in accordance with the weekly menu.
- Oversee food production processes to ensure timely delivery of high-quality meals.
- Ensure that sanitation, housekeeping and safety standards meet the requirements of the Food Safety Act 1990 and subsequent relevant acts and regulations including responding to in-house quality audits.
- Maintain strict adherence to food safety regulations and hygiene standards across all kitchen areas. Maintain the food safety programme Safer Food Better Business (SFBB), which includes the Food Standards Agency Hazard Analysis and Critical Care Points (HACCP).
- Ensure all food opening, closing and temperature checks are recorded and dated, ensure the team and supper chefs are aware of the need to consistently maintain good record keeping.
- Coordinate with care staff to ensure that residents receive their meals on time, that food is always attractive, and well presented.
- Monitor inventory levels each, ordering essential stock items as required, and manage waste control to optimise resources.
- Support in developing new menu items and culinary innovations to enhance customer satisfaction. Contribute to theme days and special events for residents.
- Liaise with the Nutrition & Hydration Champions and participate in Nutritional Group meetings with residents.
Requirements
- Proven supervisory experience within a professional kitchen environment. Evidence of foundation level qualifications in culinary skills. BTEC in Food Preparation or equivalent would be an advantage.
- Considerable culinary experience with strong skills in food preparation and cooking techniques.
- Knowledge of food safety standards and best practices in hygiene management.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a team effectively under pressure.
- Experience of working in care home or hospitality setting is highly desirable.
- Strong organisational skills with an eye for detail in food presentation and quality control.
- Excellent communication skills to coordinate with team members and front-of-house staff.
- Passion for culinary arts, innovation, and delivering exceptional customer experiences. This position is an excellent opportunity for a motivated culinary professional looking to advance their career within a vibrant hospitality environment while contributing to our commitment to excellence in food service.
Job Types: Part-time, Permanent
Pay: £16.60 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
Work Location: In person
