1. About the Role. We are seeking a passionate and dedicated full-time Chef to join our exclusive 27-bed care home, beautifully situated in the historic village of Alfriston, overlooking the South Downs National Park. Working alongside the Head Chef, you will support and lead a small kitchen team in delivering delicious, varied, and nutritious meals that are prepared and presented to an exceptional standard. This role is a vital contribution to the quality of life and overall wellbeing of our residents. 2. Key Responsibilities.
Support the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen, leading the team on shift in line with clear systems, processes, and standards. You will oversee food preparation and service, ensuring all mealsfrom breakfast through to supper, including snacks and refreshmentsare delivered in a timely, flexible, and responsive manner for residents and their visitors.
3. Resident Experience & Engagement.
Engage regularly with residents to understand their food and beverage preferences, gathering feedback and reflecting this in menu planning. You will promote dignity, independence, and choice at all times, ensuring every dining experience is enjoyable, respectful, and tailored to individual needs. You will also prepare food and beverages for special occasions such as birthdays and celebrations.
4. Dietary Requirements & Nutrition.
Demonstrate a strong understanding of specialist dietary requirements, including diabetic, gluten-free, and IDDSI frameworks. Ensure all meals are nutritionally balanced, safe, and appropriate for each resident, with a focus on quality, taste, and presentation.
5. Kitchen Management & Compliance.
Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety, ensuring full compliance with Environmental Health Regulations and maintaining a Level 5 accreditation. Responsibilities include accurate record-keeping, temperature monitoring (food, fridges, and freezers), stock rotation, correct storage and labelling of food, and maintaining records of food consumed. You will also implement and manage an efficient cleaning rota, including deep cleaning schedules, delegating tasks where appropriate.
6. Teamwork & Service Standards.
Work collaboratively with the kitchen and wider care home team to deliver a high-quality dining experience. Ensure dining areas, table settings, tray presentation, and food descriptions are consistently of a high professional standard. Provide fresh drinks and snacks for visitors and ensure meals are available for eligible staff.
7. Reporting.
Report directly to the Head Chef, maintaining clear communication and supporting continuous improvement across all aspects of the kitchen and dining service.
8. Hours of work. Set shift pattern of working Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 8am - 5pm.
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