6 months contract with local authority We are looking for a Chef to prepare well-balanced, nutritious meals for young people ages 11-17 with a range of dietary requirements, while maintaining excellent standards of hygiene and safety. You will support the Chef Manager in controlling the catering budget, ordering food stock, and planning menus in partnership with the Home Manager and care providers. Responsibilities Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the catering department, preparing meals, and ensuring a high-quality catering service is delivered. Supervising the catering assistants in the team, organizing and allocating tasks, and managing your own time and theirs. Collaborating with other colleagues within the home to successfully deliver the catering service. Supporting the Chef Manager with the ordering of supplies (food, cleaning), helping to control budgets and stock, and ensuring only nominated suppliers are used for all purchases. Monitoring the quality of the catering service provided to residents, ensuring meal service is on time and of a high standard, including presentation, and observing all special dietary requirements. Ensuring food hygiene and health and safety regulations are strictly observed and HCC policy and processes are followed, including the correct recording and archiving of information. Planning menus in consultation with the Chef Manager and HCC guidelines and being flexible in response to residents' needs. Catering for special diets, ensuring they meet nutritional needs and exceed customer expectations. Planning for special events, e.g. birthdays, Christmas, and theme days. Ensuring all kitchen equipment is in full, safe working order, reporting any damage or faults to the Chef Manager in a timely manner using the correct local procedures. Keeping all areas of the kitchen to a high standard of cleanliness, ensuring appropriate cleaning schedules are in place and records are kept. Minimizing waste and discarding it in the appropriate way, encouraging and supporting recycling practices in the team. Showing compassion and understanding towards residents and their needs and attending resident/relative meetings. Responding positively to feedback and striving for continual service improvements. Supporting the Chef Manager with their duties and deputizing for them as required. Requirements Level 2 in Food and Cooking (or equivalent). Level 2 in Food Safety (or equivalent), or willing to complete within 3 months of starting in the role. Allergen awareness to ensure food safety for residents and visitors. Enhanced Children's and Adult DBS. Level 2/3 in Diet and Nutrition (desirable).