Chef

LJ Recruitment; Hythe; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

We are supporting a family-owned care home in Hythe, Kent, seeking an experienced Chef to join the catering team. You will supervise Catering Assistants, plan and prepare nutritious meals, and work with the Head Chef to maintain high kitchen standards.

The role is full-time, 4 days one week and 3 the next, 7am-5pm (37.5 hours). Salary is £16.25 per hour (£31,687 per annum).

Qualifications

• Ability to organise and prioritise tasks effectively.
• Capable of working independently and using initiative.
• Sound understanding of Health & Safety requirements.
• Safer Food, Better Business guidelines.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate or higher.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and support catering team, guiding basic food prep.
• Ensure food handling and storage follow hygiene legislation.
• Record fridge/freezer temperatures to ensure safe storage.
• Oversee cleaning schedules and maintain high cleanliness.
• Prepare and cook daily meals for residents and staff.
• Follow Health and Safety, COSHH and HACCP guidelines.
• Build positive relationships with residents and staff.
• Deliver meals and assist with meal service as needed.
• Communicate changes in residents' eating habits to care team.
• Complete mandatory induction training and ongoing competence.

Skills

Organised

Independent worker

Health & Safety

Attention to detail

SFBB guidelines

Education

Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

I'm currently supporting a family-owned care home, seeking a new experienced Chef reporting to their Head Chef

This is a full time role, working 4 days one week, 3 the next

Hours - 7am-5pm 37.5 hours per week

£16.25 per hour - £31,687 per annum

Location - Hythe, Kent

You'll help lead and guide the Catering Assistants while assisting in the preparation and service of nutritious, well-balanced meals that contribute to the health and happiness of our residents.

You will work closely with the Head Chef to plan, prepare, and cook meals, while ensuring the kitchen is maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and hygiene in accordance with all relevant legislation and regulations.

The role:

• Supervise and support members of the catering team, offering guidance and practical instruction in basic food preparation tasks.
• Ensure all food is handled, prepared and stored in line with food hygiene legislation and best practice.
• Check and record refrigerator and freezer temperatures to maintain safe food storage conditions.
• Oversee kitchen cleaning schedules and ensure all food preparation and storage areas, equipment and appliances are cleaned to a high standard.
• Prepare and cook daily meals for residents and staff, and provide catering for special events, celebrations and private dining occasions.
• Follow Health and Safety legislation, fire safety procedures, COSHH requirements and HACCP guidelines relevant to the role.
• Build positive working relationships with residents, relatives, visitors and colleagues.
• Prepare meals, snacks and beverages that meet residents' dietary requirements, preferences and cultural needs.
• Deliver meals to dining areas or residents' rooms in a friendly and courteous manner and assist with meal service when needed.
• Communicate with the care team regarding any changes in residents' eating habits, particularly where food is refused.
• Complete all mandatory training during induction and maintain ongoing competence in the role.

About you:

• Ability to organise and prioritise tasks effectively
• Capable of working independently and using initiative
• Sound understanding of Health & Safety requirements
• Safer Food, Better Business guidelines
• Excellent attention to detail
• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate or higher