Chef

Manchester Arndale; Greater London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering provider in Greater London is seeking a Chef to manage food preparation and cooking processes for a Term Time Only maternity cover role. The ideal candidate will have experience in contract catering, a Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality, and strong teamwork skills. This contract lasts until September 2026 with a Monday to Friday shift pattern from 7am to 3pm.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef in Contract Catering.
• Demonstrated understanding of cooking methods, ingredients, and processes.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food and manage cooking processes efficiently.
• Ensure safety, hygiene, and proper use of kitchen equipment.
• Maintain adequate stock of fresh ingredients.

Skills

Catering and Hospitality knowledge

Multitasking

Teamwork and communication

Time-management

Education

Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality or equivalent

City & Guilds certification, BTEC, or NVQ at a basic level

Food hygiene course at Level 2

Job description

About The Company:

OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering.

Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values – Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.

About The Role:

This role is working Term Time Only (Maternity Cover) and is a Contract until 30th September 2026.

Shift Pattern:

Monday to Friday 7am - 3pm

Responsibilities:

• Handle day-to-day food preparation and duties assigned by senior chefs to meet the sites standards and quality
• Manage the cooking process at their specific station of several dishes, ensuring that the food is delivered in a timely manner
• Be responsible for safety, hygiene, and correct use of department utensils and equipment on site always
• Notify Senior Chefs of inventory when running low by ensuring that the kitchen remains adequately stocked with fresh ingredients and catering necessities
• Work with the rest of the culinary team to ensure high-quality food and service is maintained throughout the shift

Qualifications/Experience:

• Proven experience as a Chef role is desired. Candidates should have experience working in a similar role within Contract Catering
• Possess a Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality or equivalent
• Understand and be able to demonstrate various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment and processes is essential. Candidates should also be able to multitask and work efficiently under pressure
• The ability to work well in a team is crucial. Candidates should have excellent listening and communication skills
• Understand the standard legal policies and procedures regarding receiving, preparation, storage and sanitation of food and the menu items fully, including the recipes, production and presentation methods

Ideal Candidate Criteria:

• Must have the Right to Work in the UK
• Must be prepared to undergo a DBS or Enhanced security check
• City & Guilds certification, BTEC, or NVQ at a basic level is require
• Additionally, completing a food hygiene course at Level 2 would be desirable
• Excellent customer service skills are essential
• Good time-management and organisational abilities

How to Apply:

If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available.

We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.