Care Home Cook & Kitchen Team Leader

Highgate Care; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Highgate Care is seeking a Chef/Cook for permanent, full-time work at The Lawns in Darlington. The role centers on planning, preparing and cooking nutritious meals aligned with residents’ preferences and dietary needs.

You will lead the kitchen team, ensure food safety compliance, and maintain a welcoming kitchen environment. The successful candidate will be warm, well-organised, creative and able to motivate others.

Qualifications

• Warm, approachable, and positive attitude.
• Organised, reliable, and confident in planning.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and cook a variety of meals that are appealing and nutritious, respecting residents' preferences and dietary requirements.
• Support the team, creating a friendly and supportive working environment.
• Supervise and appraise the Kitchen Team.
• Interview applicants for Kitchen Team vacancies.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, Health and Safety, COSHH, Environmental Health and maintain a safe home.
• Maintain cleaning schedules and ensure kitchen cleanliness.
• Order and receive stock from approved suppliers and rotate stock.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is safe and well-maintained.
• Contribute to staff meetings and assist with catering staff development.
• Engage with residents and relatives to monitor satisfaction and respond to feedback.

Skills

Warm personality

Organised

Creative

Motivational skills

People-focused care

Positive attitude

Job description

Highgate Care is seeking a Chef/Cook for permanent, full-time work at The Lawns in Darlington. The role centers on planning, preparing and cooking nutritious meals aligned with residents’ preferences and dietary needs.

You will lead the kitchen team, ensure food safety compliance, and maintain a welcoming kitchen environment. The successful candidate will be warm, well-organised, creative and able to motivate others.