Chef

NHS; City Of London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading care home provider is seeking a dedicated Chef to prepare and serve wholesome meals while maintaining high food safety standards. The ideal candidate will hold an S/NVQ2 in Catering & Hospitality along with HACCP knowledge. A £1000 welcome bonus is offered. The role emphasizes teamwork and creativity in menu planning, providing an opportunity to make mealtimes special for residents.

Benefits

£1000 Welcome bonus

Great work-life balance

Paid Enhanced DBS/PVG

Company pension scheme

28 days annual leave

Learning and development opportunities

Free uniform

Qualifications

• Experience as a cook with required qualifications.
• Understanding of food safety standards and HACCP.
• Positive attitude and caring approach.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve wholesome, homemade meals.
• Maintain high standards of food safety.
• Contribute to menu planning.

Skills

HACCP knowledge

Teamwork

Creativity in menu planning

Education

S/NVQ2 in Catering & Hospitality

Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

Overview

At HC-One, kindness is at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for a dedicated Chef who can bring their skills and passion for food into our care home kitchen. You’ll play a vital role in preparing and serving wholesome, homemade meals that not only meet nutritional needs but also bring comfort and enjoyment to our Residents every day.

Main responsibilities

• Prepare and serve wholesome, homemade meals in a care home kitchen.
• Maintain high standards of food safety and kitchen practice with HACCP knowledge.
• Contribute to menu planning with creativity and attention to presentation.
• Work as a positive, caring team member reflecting HC-One values.
• Note: This role includes a £1000 welcome bonus.

About the role

You will be an experienced cook with a recognised qualification, holding an S/NVQ2 in Catering & Hospitality or Professional Cookery, along with a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate. With a sound understanding of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP), you’ll be confident in maintaining the highest standards of food safety and kitchen practice. Beyond your technical skills, you’ll bring creativity to menu planning, pride in presenting nutritious and appetising dishes, and a genuine passion for making mealtimes special for our Residents. Above all, you’ll be a team player with a positive attitude and a caring approach that reflects the values of HC-One.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. You should be able to recognise signs of possible abuse, harm or neglect and know what to do if concerns arise. All colleagues are required to attend safeguarding training appropriate to their role and to undertake additional training in related areas. You should have the ability to seek appropriate advice and report concerns, including escalation if action is not taken.

About HC-One

At HC-One, kindness is more than a word—it's a way of life. We champion five key qualities: Curiosity, Compassion, Creativity, Courage and Dependability. We value inclusivity, diversity, and the development of our colleagues. We support residents through digital care planning and provide clear career pathways and ongoing professional development. Please note: We are only able to consider applications from individuals who already have the full right to work in the UK. We cannot offer sponsorship or accept applications from those on a time-limited visa.

Rewards & Benefits

You will enjoy a wide range of benefits to support your well-being and career progression. HC-One is committed to investing in your growth and opportunities at regional and national levels.

• £1000 Welcome bonus
• Great work-life balance
• An hourly rate subject to experience and qualifications
• Paid Enhanced DBS/PVG
• Free uniform
• Nutritious meal during shifts of eight hours or more
• Company pension scheme
• 28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays
• Group life assurance
• Wagestream – financial wellbeing and flexible access to pay
• Learning and development and opportunities to achieve qualifications
• GP online service for you and dependents under 16
• Colleague discounts and well-being resources
• Recognition schemes such as Kindness in Care and Long Service Awards
• Refer-a-friend scheme

Requirements

Qualifications Essential: S/NVQ2 in Catering & Hospitality or Professional Cookery, plus Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate. Desirable: As above (aligned with role requirements).

Experience Essential: Experience as a cook with the above qualifications and HACCP knowledge. Desirable: Experience in a care home kitchen environment.

Other

Disclosures: This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and a Disclosure to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Employer: HC-One

Address: 2A Suttons Lane, Hornchurch, Essex, RM12 6RJ

Website: https://apply.hc-one.co.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)