Social network you want to login/join with:
At Ryan Meadows, we are dedicated to ensuring that our Care Home Residents enjoy a special dining experience each day, with every plate thoughtfully prepared to bring joy, comfort, and satisfaction to their daily lives.
Job Summary:
We are offering a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and passionate Chef / Cook to support the Head Chef and oversee all areas of the kitchen. The role involves delivering high-quality restaurant-standard meals to our residents, without long weeks or split shifts.
Progression and growth opportunities are available—be a key member of our resident dining development plan.
This role requires a motivated and warm candidate who can deliver an enjoyable dining experience for our residents. You will assist in all aspects of kitchen operations, including menu development, food preparation, cooking, ordering, and maintaining food safety and hygiene standards.
What do we offer in return for your motivation and outstanding work?
* Early access to a portion of your earnings with Wagestream
* Employee Assistance Programme, with 24/7 support and helpline access, health checks, wellbeing tools, legal advice, and more
* Free confidential counselling sessions, up to 6 structured sessions via phone, online, or face-to-face
* Gift card and cinema savings through Salary Extras
* Exclusive high street discounts through the Blue Light Card
* Free mortgage consultation with McCuster Mortgage Solutions
* Comprehensive induction and ongoing training, including paid shadowing and training to support your confidence and success
* 28 days holiday (pro rata)
* Clear opportunities for career progression to help you reach your full potential
Key Responsibilities:
* Assist with developing and implementing nutritious, well-balanced, and varied menus catering to residents' dietary needs and preferences
* Prepare meals to a high standard, ensuring taste, presentation, and quality are consistently excellent
* Support and direct the kitchen team
* Maintain the highest standards during all stages of food preparation, ensuring residents' well-being
* Ensure meals are cooked and served according to the menu
* Ensure compliance with Food Safety & Hygiene Regulations
* Maintain portion control procedures to minimize waste
* Meet individual dietary requirements
* Maintain systems and checks for a clean, safe, organized, healthy, and efficient working environment
* Properly store all food and other items
* Monitor stock levels, maintain effective stock rotation, and place orders as needed
* Deputize for the Head Chef when required
Food Safety and Hygiene:
* Regularly audit Health and Safety, Food Hygiene, and HACCP checks, ensuring documentation is complete for inspections
* Ensure the kitchen complies with all relevant health and safety regulations and standards
* Conduct regular inspections of kitchen practices, equipment, and storage areas
Resident and Staff Engagement:
* Engage with residents and staff to understand their dietary needs, preferences, and feedback
* Collaborate with the care team to meet residents' nutritional needs
* Communicate effectively with other departments for smooth operations and resident satisfaction
* Show courtesy and respect to residents and relatives
Qualifications and Experience:
* Proven experience as a Chef / Cook, preferably in a care home, healthcare, or hospitality environment
* Comfortable in all kitchen areas, including preparing Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with fresh produce
* Pastry and Bakery experience is an advantage
* Professional culinary qualifications
* Knowledge of allergens, dietary needs, and nutrition, especially for elderly individuals
* Good team supervision skills
* Understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations
* Creative culinary skills and innovative approach
* Strong organizational skills
* Compassionate, patient, and passionate about improving residents' lives
Note: Due to certificate restrictions, candidates without an existing visa or right to work in the UK are unlikely to be suitable.
*This position requires a PVG and two references*
#J-18808-Ljbffr