Job Description
Can you make a real difference in the lives of others?
At Macklin Care Homes, you will work as part of an award-winning team valued for your contribution, with opportunities for career development, and a friendly and rewarding working environment. If you are a compassionate person who cares with heart, we would love to hear from you.
Our residents are the heart of our homes; we are inspired not only by their stories and experiences of years past but also by the knowledge that we are making a real difference in their lives.
Milesian Manor, based in Magherafelt, is currently recruiting for an experienced Assistant Chef/Cook. This role offers the perfect opportunity to combine your passion for cooking with a work-life balance. You will prepare nutritious, delicious meals for residents, tailored to their dietary needs, while enjoying a friendly and supportive environment.
About The Role
Key Responsibilities:
* Plan, prepare, and cook meals for residents, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
* Cater to individual dietary requirements, including allergens and health-related restrictions.
* Create a variety of well-balanced, appealing, and nutritious meals.
* Develop weekly or monthly menus in collaboration with residents and management, ensuring variety and nutritional value.
* Oversee daily operations within the kitchen, ensuring smooth workflow and timely meal service.
* Maintain stock control, including ordering, receiving, and proper storage of food supplies.
* Minimise food waste and manage budgets effectively.
* Adhere to food safety standards, including proper food handling, preparation, and storage.
* Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in all areas of the kitchen, including equipment and utensils.
* Engage with residents to gather feedback and understand their preferences.
* Foster a welcoming and inclusive dining experience for residents.
Ideal Candidate:
* Passion for cooking and providing excellent dining experiences.
* Ability to manage time and prioritise tasks effectively in a fast-paced setting.
* Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
* Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of food quality and safety.
Company benefits:
At Macklin Care Homes, we understand the hard work and dedication that our colleagues bring to their roles, and we are committed to rewarding their efforts with a comprehensive benefits package:
* Collaborating with an award-winning team with family values.
* Enjoy a fully paid induction programme to help you transition smoothly into your role.
* Access to a wide variety of training opportunities to support professional growth.
* Career development opportunities.
* Flexibility of shifts.
* Access to the Employee Assistance Programme for mental health and well-being support.
* Discounted rates at Malone Hotel, Belfast.
* Health and well-being initiatives, including team-building initiatives.
* Free car parking and uniform*.
* Incentives for employee referrals*.
*T&Cs will apply.
Ensure your CV is up to date, as this is required for the interview process.
Sponsorship for this role is not offered. Applications requiring sponsorship will not be considered.
Interviews may take place before the job advertisement closes. Submit your application promptly, as the role may close early if a suitable candidate is appointed. In addition, we also reserve the right to enhance the criteria at the shortlisting stage.
An Enhanced Access NI Check will be required for this post. If successful, please be aware that we do have a policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders. As per the Access NI Code of Practice, Macklin Care Homes also has a policy on the secure handling, use, storage, and retention of disclosure information. Copies of these documents, along with the Access NI Code of Practice, are available upon request by contacting the HR Department.
It is Macklin Care Homes' Policy that any existence of a criminal conviction will not necessarily lead to the withdrawal of a job offer, but the failure to disclose all criminal convictions fully and accurately will lead to the withdrawal of a job offer.
Macklin Care Homes is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Skills Needed
About The Company
Macklin Care Homes – Caring with Heart for Over 30 Years
For over 30 years, Macklin Care Homes have been dedicated to providing exceptional care. We bring decades of experience, knowledge, and expertise to every individual we support. But we are not just another care home—we are family-first. Everyone who comes through our doors—residents, staff, relatives, and suppliers—is treated as part of one big caring community.
We proudly operate six care homes across Northern Ireland:
* Arlington, Our Lady's, and Parkmanor Oaks – Belfast
* Milesian Manor – Magherafelt
* Ratheane – Coleraine
* Leabank – Ballycastle
Our vision is to make a genuine, positive impact on the lives of people in our local communities. We strive to be the trusted care provider that families choose with confidence. Through dedication, passion, and commitment, we care with heart—creating an environment where people feel safe, loved, and respected.
At Macklin Care Homes, we aim to be the preferred choice in the community—where families know their loved ones are in the best hands.
Company Culture
Make a Real Difference – Join Macklin Care Homes
Do you want to make a genuine difference in the lives of others? At Macklin Care Homes, we are always looking for passionate, caring individuals to join our team—and in return, we will help bring out the very best in you.
As part of our award-winning team, you will be valued for your contribution and supported with opportunities for career development, all within a friendly and rewarding working environment.
Our residents are at the heart of everything we do. We are inspired by their stories, their experiences, and the knowledge that our care truly makes a difference in their lives.
Guided by a strong set of core values, we cultivate a culture of respect, dedication, and compassion. These values ensure that residents and their families remain at the centre of all our efforts.
We are proud of the positive, caring culture we live by every day. If you are compassionate, committed, and care with heart, we would love to hear from you. Join us, and be part of a team that truly makes a difference.
For all recruitment-related enquiries, please contact our Recruitment Team at: recruitment@macklingroup.com
Desired Criteria
* Previous management experience
Required Criteria
* Minimum three years experience in a similar role
* Food Hygiene & COSHH training
* Good General Health (medically fit)
Closing DateThursday 30th April, 2026