Chef(Ad-hoc role)

European Foundation for Business Qualification (EFBQ); Brighton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A local government council in Brighton & Hove is seeking a Hostel Chef to provide nutritious meals for up to 24 residents in a homeless hostel setting. The ideal candidate will have experience cooking for groups, uphold standards of food safety and hygiene, and work independently. Essential qualifications include a valid Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate. This role is suitable for individuals looking to supplement their permanent job with additional hours.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 months cooking in a professional or community kitchen, catering for up to 30 people.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare nutritionally balanced meals, catering for allergies and dietary needs.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen cleanliness.
• Record temperatures, cleaning schedules, and meal logs daily.

Skills

Clear communicator and active listener

Ability to manage stress and work reflectively

Compassionate and optimistic approach

Strong problem-solving and mediation skills

Education

Valid Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate

NVQ Level 2 in Food Safety

Job description

Hostel Chef

Location: Brighton & Hove

Pay Rate: £19.32 per hour

Contract Type: Ad-hoc shifts (holiday, sickness, and short‑notice cover)

Guidant Global is recruiting a Hostel Chef on behalf of Brighton & Hove City Council to provide nutritious meals for up to 24 residents in a homeless hostel setting.

The hostel offers short‑term accommodation to local, single homeless individuals with complex needs, including those with substance use challenges and mental health issues. The service supports residents in preparing for independent living by providing a safe space, training, and opportunities for positive change.

About The Role

• Prepare and serve a hot lunch and a cold evening meal for up to 24 residents.
• Prepare soups and cakes as part of the menu.
• Work independently in the kitchen - no KP or CA support.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen cleanliness.
• Collaborate with hostel staff and attend briefings when required.
• Promote sustainability and follow safeguarding processes.

This role is ideal for someone with a permanent job looking to pick up extra hours.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare nutritionally balanced meals, catering for allergies and dietary needs.
• Portion control and pre‑plating to ensure all residents receive a meal.
• Complete food labelling, dating, and hygiene documentation.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and report faults promptly.
• Ensure compliance with BHCC policies, EHO guidelines, and Food Safety standards.
• Record temperatures, cleaning schedules, and meal logs daily.
• Gather feedback from residents and adapt menus where appropriate.

Essential Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 6 months cooking in a professional or community kitchen, catering for up to 30 people.
• Food Safety: Valid Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Compliance: Enhanced DBS check.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and reliably.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Desirable

• Experience working with vulnerable adults or those experiencing food insecurity.
• Adult safeguarding training (or willingness to complete).
• NVQ Level 2 in Food Safety.
• Understanding of challenging behaviours and maintaining professional boundaries.

Skills & Competencies

• Clear communicator and active listener.
• Ability to manage stress and work reflectively.
• Compassionate and optimistic approach.
• Strong problem‑solving and mediation skills.

Ready to serve up something great?

Apply now by sending your CV.