Chef

Gold Care Homes; Hitchin; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee of the Month

Long term service awards

Blue Light Card

Professional Development

Refer a Friend

Job summary

Gold Care Homes is seeking a dedicated Chef in a care home setting to prepare nutritious meals tailored to residents' dietary needs. You will ensure high standards of taste, appearance, and nutritional value while maintaining food safety and hygiene.

Collaborate with Head Chef/Manager to plan menus, incorporate seasonal ingredients, monitor costs, and train junior kitchen staff. Engage with residents to discuss preferences and explain preparation methods.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare daily meals according to menus and dietary requirements.
• Ensure meals are cooked and presented to a high standard with nutritional value.
• Adapt recipes for residents with special dietary needs (e.g., diabetic, gluten-free).
• Monitor portion control to ensure appropriate serving sizes.
• Collaborate with Head Chef/Manager to develop menus and incorporate seasonal ingredients.
• Maintain a clean, safe kitchen environment and comply with health regulations.
• Monitor stock levels, order supplies, and manage food costs to minimize waste.
• Supervise and train kitchen assistants or junior staff as needed.
• Engage with residents to understand preferences and explain ingredients and methods.

Skills

Meal preparation

Menu planning

Food safety

Dietary accommodations

Budget management

Job description

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.

Menu Planning:

• 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.

Team Collaboration:

• 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.

• £16.50 Per Hour
• Employee of the Month
• Long term service awards
• Blue Light Card
• Professional Development
• Refer a Friend