Care Home CHEF

JAYCO Recruitment; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Permanent full-time position

Paid annual leave

Company pension scheme

Ongoing training opportunities

Friendly working environment

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

JAYCO Recruitment is seeking a passionate Chef to join a care home team, preparing fresh, nutritious meals aligned with residents’ dietary needs. The role requires delivering high-quality food and a welcoming dining experience while upholding hygiene and safety.

Key duties include supporting the Head Chef, menu planning, and preparing special diets. A Level 2 Food Safety certificate is preferred, with opportunities for training and career progression in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Chef, preferably in a care home, nursing home, hospital or similar catering environment.
• Genuine passion for cooking and providing quality meals for older people.
• Understanding of nutrition, hydration and special dietary requirements.
• Knowledge of food hygiene and health and safety standards.
• Organised, reliable and able to manage time effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Caring, patient and compassionate approach.
• Willing to obtain Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene certificate if not already held.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef and oversee the kitchen in their absence.
• Prepare and serve nutritious, high-quality meals.
• Assist with menu planning to meet residents’ preferences and dietary needs.
• Prepare special diets, including allergen-aware and texture-modified meals.
• Maintain food hygiene, kitchen cleanliness and health and safety standards.
• Monitor stock, rotate supplies, assist with ordering and minimise waste.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is clean, safe and well maintained.
• Support and guide kitchen assistants when required.
• Maintain food safety records, including temperature checks.
• Work closely with care staff to meet residents’ needs.
• Report hazards, equipment faults and incidents promptly.
• Follow company policies, maintain confidentiality and complete mandatory training.

Skills

Culinary skills

Nutrition awareness

Food hygiene

Time management

Teamwork

Independent worker

Education

Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene certificate

Job description

We are looking for a passionate, reliable and enthusiastic Chef to join our team at a care home, preparing fresh, nutritious and delicious meals for our residents.

The successful candidate will take pride in delivering high-quality food that meets residents' individual dietary requirements, preferences and nutritional needs. You will play an important role in creating a welcoming dining experience and ensuring residents enjoy tasty, balanced meals every day.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef and oversee the kitchen in their absence.
• Prepare and serve nutritious, high-quality meals.
• Assist with menu planning to meet residents’ preferences and dietary needs.
• Prepare special diets, including allergen-aware and texture-modified meals.
• Maintain food hygiene, kitchen cleanliness and health and safety standards.
• Monitor stock, rotate supplies, assist with ordering and minimise waste.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is clean, safe and well maintained.
• Support and guide kitchen assistants when required.
• Maintain food safety records, including temperature checks.
• Work closely with care staff to meet residents’ needs.
• Report hazards, equipment faults and incidents promptly.
• Follow company policies, maintain confidentiality and complete mandatory training.

The ideal candidate will:

• Have previous experience as a Chef, preferably in a care home, nursing home, hospital or similar catering environment.
• Have a genuine passion for cooking and providing quality meals for older people.
• Understand the importance of nutrition, hydration and special dietary requirements.
• Have a good knowledge of food hygiene and health and safety standards.
• Be organised, reliable and able to manage time effectively.
• Be able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Have a caring, patient and compassionate approach.
• Hold a Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene certificate, or be willing to obtain one.

What We Offer

• Permanent full-time employment (38–40 hours per week).
• Paid annual leave.
• Company pension scheme.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Supportive and friendly working environment.
• Opportunities for career progression.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to residents through high-quality food and service.