Chef / Cook

Keane Premier Support Services South Lanarkshire; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading care home in Scotland seeks an experienced Chef/Cook to create exceptional dining experiences for residents. In this pivotal role, you will ensure high-quality meals while supporting the Head Chef, with opportunities for progression. The position emphasizes creativity and compassion, focusing on the dietary needs of elderly residents. Attractive benefits include early access to earnings and comprehensive training.

Benefits

Early access to earnings with Wagestream

Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 support

Free confidential counselling sessions

Gift cards and cinema discounts

High street discounts via Blue Light Card

Free mortgage consultation

Comprehensive induction and ongoing training

28 days' holiday (pro rata)

Clear opportunities for career progression

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef / Cook, ideally in care homes or hospitality.
• Knowledge of allergens and dietary needs for elderly individuals.
• Compassionate and patient approach towards residents' wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Support menu development and ensure high standard meal preparation.
• Maintain compliance with food safety regulations and hygiene standards.
• Engage with residents to cater to dietary preferences.

Skills

Team supervision

Creativity

Organization

Food safety and hygiene knowledge

Education

Professional culinary qualifications

Job description

At Ryan Meadows, we are dedicated to ensuring that our Care Home Residents enjoy a special dining experience each day, with every plate thoughtfully prepared to bring joy, comfort, and satisfaction to their lives.

Job Summary:

We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and passionate Chef / Cook to support the Head Chef and oversee all areas of the kitchen. The role involves delivering high-quality “Restaurant” standard meals to our residents—without long weeks or split shifts.

Progression and growth opportunities are available—be a key member of our resident dining development plan.

This role requires a motivated candidate with genuine warmth to provide an enjoyable dining experience for our residents. You will assist in all aspects of kitchen operations, including menu development, food preparation, cooking, ordering, and maintaining food safety and hygiene standards.

What we offer in return:

• Early access to earnings with Wagestream
• Employee Assistance Programme, with 24/7 support, health checks, wellbeing tools, legal advice, and more
• Free confidential counselling sessions—up to 6 sessions via phone, online, or face-to-face
• Gift cards and cinema discounts through Salary Extras
• High street discounts via Blue Light Card
• Free mortgage consultation with McCuster Mortgage Solutions
• Comprehensive induction and ongoing training, including paid shadowing
• 28 days’ holiday (pro rata)
• Clear opportunities for career progression

Key Responsibilities:

• Support development and implementation of nutritious, well-balanced menus catering to residents' dietary needs
• Prepare meals to a high standard, ensuring taste, presentation, and quality
• Support and direct the kitchen team
• Maintain high standards during food preparation and cooking
• Ensure compliance with Food Safety & Hygiene regulations
• Maintain portion control to minimize waste
• Meet individual dietary requirements
• Keep the kitchen environment clean, organized, and safe
• Properly store all food and items
• Monitor stock levels, rotate stock effectively, and place orders as needed
• Deputize for the Head Chef when required

Food Safety and Hygiene:

• Regularly audit health and safety, food hygiene, and HACCP compliance, completing documentation for inspections
• Ensure all practices meet health and safety standards
• Conduct inspections of kitchen practices and storage areas

Resident and Staff Engagement:

• Engage with residents and staff to understand dietary needs and preferences
• Collaborate with the care team to meet nutritional requirements
• Communicate effectively across departments to ensure smooth operations
• Show courtesy and respect to residents and relatives

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience as a Chef / Cook, ideally in care homes, healthcare, or hospitality
• Comfortable preparing and cooking Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with fresh produce
• Pastry and bakery experience is advantageous
• Professional culinary qualifications
• Knowledge of allergens, dietary needs, and nutrition for elderly individuals
• Strong team supervision skills
• Good understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations
• Creative culinary skills and innovative approach
• Organizational skills
• Compassionate, patient, and passionate about residents' wellbeing

Additional notes:

Due to current certificate issuance restrictions, candidates without existing visas or right to work in the UK are unlikely to be suitable. This position requires a PVG check and two references.