Cook

Manchester Arndale; Fareham; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

OCS UK & Ireland is hiring a Cook to prepare and serve nutritious meals in a supported residential setting. You will follow menus, ensure portion accuracy and maintain high food hygiene standards, contributing to residents’ wellbeing and routine.

This role requires a DBS check and a Right to Work in the UK, with on-site duties at Fareham in a structured environment. You’ll join a small team delivering reliable catering services within established procedures.

Qualifications

• Right to Work in the UK and willing to undergo a DBS check.
• City & Guilds 706/1/2 or NVQ equivalent or Production Chef Level 2.
• Understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook meals in line with planned menus and portion guidelines.
• Ensure meals are presented to a high standard and maintain hygiene.
• Manage stock levels, place basic orders and minimise waste.
• Support day-to-day kitchen operations and adhere to safety procedures.
• Contribute to a respectful, structured environment for residents and staff.

Skills

Right to Work in UK

Food hygiene knowledge

Independent worker

Good communication

Education

City & Guilds 706/1/2 or NVQ equivalent

Job description

About The Role:

Days of Working: This position will be based at Dickson House, Fareham, working 12pm to 6pm on a 4 on 4 off basis.

As a Cook at OCS, you will play a meaningful role in supporting individuals as they transition back into the community. Working within a supported residential setting for a government client, you will help provide nutritious, high-quality meals that contribute to wellbeing, routine and stability.

This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who takes pride in their work and wants to make a positive difference through food and service. You’ll be part of a small, supportive team, delivering consistent and reliable catering services within a structured environment.

As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Prepare and cook meals in line with planned menus, recipes and portion guidelines
• Ensure food is presented to a good standard, with a focus on quality and consistency
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and kitchen safety
• Manage stock levels, including basic ordering and minimising food waste
• Support the smooth day-to-day running of kitchen operations
• Follow all food safety, Health & Safety and site procedures at all times
• Contribute to a positive, respectful environment for both colleagues and residents

The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:

• Must have the Right to Work in the UK and willingness to undergo a DBS check
• City & Guilds 706/1/2 or the NVQ equivalent OR production Chef Level 2
• Understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety standards
• Ability to work independently and take responsibility for your tasks
• A reliable, consistent and professional approach
• Confidence working in a structured environment with clear processes
• Good communication skills and a respectful, non-judgemental approach

Desirable:

• Experience working in supported living, residential or public sector environments
• Understanding of the importance of routine and structure in a care or rehabilitation setting

About The Company:

OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering.

Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values - Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.

Why Work for OCS?

• Award-Winning Employer: Ranked 36th on Glassdoor’s Best Companies to Work For 2025 — we value and motivate our people.
• Digital Learning: The OCS Academy offers digital courses and resources to help you build skills and grow your career.
• Retail Perks: With our Hapi app, you can gain access to exclusive discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources.
• Professional Growth: 600+ live learners across UK&I — Empowering colleagues with further development and qualifications!
• Flexible Pay: Access a portion of earned wages before payday with our Wagestream App! (Contract Specific)

We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.