Care Home Chef

Gold Care Homes; Hungerford; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the care sector is seeking a dedicated Chef to join their team. This role is vital for ensuring that residents receive nutritious and delicious meals tailored to their dietary needs. The Chef will be responsible for meal preparation, adhering to high standards of food safety and hygiene, and engaging with residents to enhance their dining experience. If you are passionate about cooking and making a positive impact on the lives of older adults, this is the perfect opportunity for you to thrive in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in meal preparation and cooking in a care home or similar setting.
• Knowledge of dietary needs and food safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook nutritious meals according to dietary needs.
• Maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene.
• Manage inventory and collaborate with staff on meal services.

Skills

Meal Preparation

Food Safety

Inventory Management

Dietary Needs Adaptation

Hygiene Standards

Education

Culinary Arts Certification

Food Safety Certification

Tools

Kitchen Equipment

Inventory Management Software

Job description

Hungerford Care Home is a warm and welcoming nursing home offering a spacious and comfortable environment and 24-hour care and support for older adults.

JOB SUMMARY

The Chef in a care home setting is responsible for preparing and cooking nutritious, well-balanced meals for residents, taking into account individual dietary needs, preferences, and medical conditions. The Chef plays a crucial role in maintaining high standards of food safety, hygiene, and presentation while contributing to the overall well-being and satisfaction of the residents.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Meal Preparation & Cooking:

• Plan and prepare daily meals according to the care home's menus and residents' dietary requirements.
• Ensure meals are cooked and presented to a high standard, with attention to taste, appearance, and nutritional value.
• Adapt recipes and menus to accommodate residents with special dietary needs (e.g., diabetic, low-sodium, gluten-free).
• Monitor portion control to ensure appropriate serving sizes.
• Collaborate with the Head Chef or Manager to develop and review menus that cater to residents' preferences and nutritional needs.
• Incorporate seasonal ingredients and local produce when possible.
• Obtain feedback from residents to continuously improve meal offerings.

Food Safety & Hygiene:

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment, adhering to health and safety regulations.
• Ensure all food is stored, prepared, and served in compliance with food safety standards.
• Regularly check kitchen equipment and report any issues or maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel.

Inventory & Budget Management:

• Monitor stock levels and order supplies as needed, ensuring cost-effective purchasing.
• Manage food costs by minimizing waste and maximizing the use of ingredients.
• Keep accurate records of stock and inventory.
• Work closely with the care home staff to coordinate meal service times and address any specific dietary requests.
• Supervise and train kitchen assistants or junior staff as needed.
• Participate in staff meetings and contribute to discussions on improving service delivery.

Resident Interaction:

• Engage with residents to understand their dietary preferences and make adjustments to menus accordingly.
• Assist residents with meal choices and provide information about the ingredients and preparation methods when needed.