Overview
We are seeking an experienced Café Cook and Kitchen Supervisor to support the delivery of high-quality, hands-on training in a fast-paced café kitchen environment, whilst also cooking café foods as required. You will play a vital role in supporting young people, many of whom face barriers to employment, to gain confidence, accredited qualifications and real-world experience, to help them build independent, sustainable futures, whilst also successfully running a community café that generates sustainable income and growth.
Accountability and Working Relationships
Accountable To: The post-holder will work closely with and report to the Cafe Manager across the range of activities covered by the post.
Working Relationships: The post-holder will be required to develop effective and positive working relationships with all New Start Highland departments, colleagues and customers.
Key Results & KPI's
* To deliver a high quality, professional cafe service to meet departmental KPI’s and New Start Highland quality standards.
* To deliver an excellent customer experience.
* To perform all duties of the post in a professional manner in line with New Start Highland culture and core values.
Responsibilities
* To assist in ensuring that in all aspects of work, New Start Highland’s values, policies and procedures are adhered to in a consistent manner.
* To maintain confidentiality.
* To liaise with staff, volunteers, service users and the general public in a courteous manner that promotes a positive image and upholds the company reputation.
* To always maintain safe systems of work ensuring quality of service and all relevant Health and Safety and hygiene regulations are consistently delivered.
* To communicate clearly and effectively with other members of the team and the general public.
Key Tasks & Duties
* Deliver practical training in food preparation duties including hygiene protocols, customer service, and cleanliness.
* Supervise and mentor young trainees during café shifts, providing daily guidance, encouragement, and structured feedback.
* Support young people to complete hospitality-related qualifications (e.g. SCQF, REHIS Customer Service/Hygiene).
* Manage daily café operations including stock control, health and safety, and compliance.
* Ensure a warm, inclusive, and welcoming café environment for customers and trainees.
* Oversee daily kitchen operations including cleanliness, customer flow, and service quality.
* Work collaboratively with front of house and support staff to create a seamless training and customer experience.
* Work closely with employability and support teams to ensure a positive, trauma-informed learning experience.
* Any other duties appropriate to post.
Salary & Benefits
There are 32 days annual leave per year inclusive of public holidays rising to 35 days after five years’ service. There will be an opportunity to participate in a contributory pension scheme.
Core Skills & Competencies
Knowledge
Essential
* Knowledge of food safety standards and health & hygiene regulations.
Desirable
* Relevant qualifications in hospitality, customer service, or training.
Skills
Essential
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to mentor and inspire young people.
* Passionate about youth development, inclusion, and social impact.
* Passion for working with young people, including those with barriers to employment.
Desirable
* SVQ in Professional Cookery, REHIS, or similar
Experience
Essential
* Experience in a hospitality or café setting.
* Previous experience of maintaining accurate records / documentation.
Desirable
* Supervising and/or training experience.
Approach
Essential
* Positive, patient, and adaptable, with excellent organisational skills.
* Ability to relate to people and form and develop constructive relationships at all levels.
* Ability to maintain good humour and remain focused under pressure.
* Solution Focused.
* Smart and presentable appearance.
* Team mind set.
* Good time keeping.
* Accountable and responsible.
* Initiative and common sense.
Desirable
Other
Essential
* This post is subject to Enhanced Disclosure “clearance” and Police Scotland checks.
Desirable
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