Job Advertisement: Assistant Cook (Band 2) Location: Trustwide (Adult Hospital Facilities) Department: Catering Services Salary Band: Band 2 Contract Type: Temporary / Permanent (Various Opportunities Available) Start Date: June 2025 Are you passionate about cooking and looking to make a difference in a healthcare setting? We are currently recruiting Assistant Cooks (Band 2) to join our hospital catering teams across various locations within the Trust. This is a great opportunity to contribute to patient care by helping provide nutritious, high-quality meals in a safe, supportive environment. Key Responsibilities: Prepare and cook meals for patients, staff, and visitors in accordance with menu plans and dietary requirements. Maintain hygiene standards in compliance with Food Safety and HACCP regulations. Carry out kitchen cleaning duties and monitor stock, fridge/freezer temperatures, and food expiry dates. Communicate effectively with staff to support smooth kitchen operations. Ensure meals are served at the correct temperature and within agreed times. Order and requisition food supplies within budgetary limits. Essential Criteria: You must meet one of the following experience and qualification combinations: Option A: 1 year of relevant experience working as a cook in a commercial catering or healthcare facility AND NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Catering or City & Guilds 706/1 and 706/2 or equivalent OR Option B: 2 years of relevant experience working as a cook in a commercial catering or healthcare facility And in addition to either A or B: CIEH Level 2 Food Safety Certificate Basic Food Hygiene Qualification Skills & Knowledge (assessed at interview): Ability to work independently and as part of a team Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise tasks Understanding of food hygiene practices and kitchen safety Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with staff and service users Flexibility to cover weekends, holidays, or sickness as needed Basic knowledge of budgeting, menu planning, ordering, and waste control Additional Information: This post may require an Enhanced Access NI Disclosure Check. Flexible working options are available from day one, including part-time hours, fixed patterns, or job share. Training and ongoing development opportunities will be provided. Successful applicants may be placed at the minimum point of the pay scale, but relevant experience may be considered for a higher starting point. How to Apply: To apply, please complete the application form, clearly outlining how you meet the essential (and if applicable, desirable) criteria. Incomplete applications may not be shortlisted Skills: work independently menu planning, ordering, and waste control