Chef

Meridian Business Support Ltd; Woodbridge; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Meridian Business Support Ltd in Woodbridge, Suffolk, is recruiting a dedicated Chef to plan and prepare nutritious meals for residents in a care home. You will lead a small kitchen team, ensure food safety and budget compliance, and maintain high hygiene standards.

The role requires practical cooking skills, knowledge of nutrition, and the ability to manage menus, stocks, and records. Weekend and holiday shifts may apply, and you will work within a supportive, resident-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Food Hygiene Level 2 required or willingness to work towards higher

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare daily menus meeting residents' nutritional needs
• Cook nutritious, appetising meals within budget
• Monitor stocks, order supplies, maintain inventory
• Keep records of food orders and stock control
• Ensure food safety and hygiene standards
• Train and supervise kitchen staff
• Maintain a clean, well-organised kitchen and routine deep cleaning
• Attend staff meetings and training
• Build positive relationships with residents and families

Skills

Chef experience

Cooking skills

Nutrition knowledge

Communication skills

Time management

Food safety knowledge

Staff training

Flexible hours

Education

Food Hygiene Level 2

First Aid Certification

NVQ Level 2/3 in Catering

Job description

Job Title

Chef

Reports to

Home Manager

Location

Woodbridge, Suffolk

About the Role

We are looking for a dedicated and experiencedChefto join our team in a care home environment. In this role, you will be responsible for planning and preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals for residents while ensuring food quality, safety, and budget requirements are met.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about cooking, organized, and able to lead a small kitchen team while maintaining high standards of hygiene and food safety.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare daily menus that meet the nutritional needs and preferences of residents.
• Cook meals that are nutritious, appetizing, and visually appealing while working within budget.
• Monitor food stocks, order supplies, and maintain appropriate inventory levels.
• Keep accurate records of food orders and stock control.
• Ensure all food is stored, prepared, and served safely in line with food hygiene standards.
• Train and supervise kitchen staff in food preparation and service.
• Follow and maintain health, safety, and environmental standards within the kitchen.
• Maintain a clean and well-organized kitchen, including routine deep cleaning.
• Attend staff meetings and training sessions when required.
• Build positive relationships with residents and their families, responding to feedback and requests where possible.

Skills and Attributes

• Previous experience as a Chef, ideally in a care home, healthcare, or hospitality environment.
• Strong cooking skills with knowledge of a variety of cooking techniques.
• Understanding of nutrition and dietary requirements.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage time effectively and work well under pressure.
• Knowledge of food safety and health & safety regulations.
• Experience training or supervising kitchen staff is an advantage.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including weekends and holidays.

Education and Qualifications

• Food Hygiene Certificate - Level 2 (or willingness to work towards intermediate food hygiene qualifications).
• First Aid Certification.
• NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Food Preparation/Catering or equivalent qualification.

Meridian Business Support is a recruitment specialist acting on behalf of our client as an Employment Agency for this vacancy