Cook

Kirklees College; Huddersfield; On-site; GBP 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK college in Huddersfield is seeking a Cook (Senior Catering Assistant) to prepare and serve food, ensure cleanliness, and maintain excellent customer service. Candidates must hold a Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate and have experience in a fast-paced kitchen. Opportunities for professional development and various employee benefits are available.

Benefits

Staff development opportunities

Employee assistance programme

Retail and leisure discounts

Reduced Metro travel

Qualifications

• Experience in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Ability to plan and prioritize tasks.
• Commitment to safeguarding the welfare of others.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve food and drinks.
• Keep the kitchen in a clean condition.
• Accept deliveries and manage orders.

Skills

Food Hygiene certificate

Customer service

Effective communication

Organizational skills

Education

Level 2 Food Hygiene

Job description

Job Title

Cook (Senior Catering Assistant)

Salary

£24,850 (pro rata £21,337 - Fixed point per annum)

Location

Huddersfield

Hours and Weeks per Year

37 hours, 38 weeks per year

Job Overview

At Kirklees College we are always looking for new talent, and welcome applications from all sectors. Whether in a teaching & learning role or in one of our specialised Business Support functions, you'll be involved in nurturing and developing the next generation of construction workers, engineers, health workers and countless others. We're already a successful college, but we're continually striving to be better and do better - be part of our story!

Key Responsibilities

• Accept deliveries and place orders with the central catering stores.
• Prepare, cook, present and serve food and drinks, ensuring sufficient amounts, variety and quality, whilst adhering to menus.
• Keep the kitchen and refectory in a clean, hygienic and acceptable condition.
• Ensure all payment transactions and recording is in line with college requirements and regulations.
• Work as part of a team and maintain excellent customer service skills.

Qualifications and Essential Criteria

• A current Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate is essential.
• Demonstrable experience of working in a fast‑paced kitchen as well as front‑of‑house, customer‑focused catering role.
• Ability to plan and prioritise multiple tasks and be organised.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to engage with young people, staff and students alike.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Values and Personal Attributes

• Ability to demonstrate the College values of Kindness, Unity and Excellence.
• Team‑spirit and the ability to inspire and support colleagues.
• Proactive and customer‑focused approach to service delivery.

Benefits and Development

Staff development opportunities include a mentoring scheme, financial contributions for external qualifications and skills development for current and aspiring managers. You'll also have access to employee assistance programme, retail and leisure discounts and reduced Metro travel.

EEO Statement

We are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community, regardless of sex, age, religion, race, marital status, disability status, sexual orientation, maternity or care leaver status. We are committed to exploring opportunities for flexible working and ensuring work‑life balance and well‑being of our workforce. Please note that any job offer is subject to pre‑employment checks including a DBS check, online searches and references from former employers, in line with guidance from the Department for Education.

Application Deadline

Closing Date: 21st November 2025

Application Process

Download and complete a copy of the Kirklees College Application Form before clicking “Apply” – you will need to attach your completed form as your application.

If you have any queries about the role or the application process, please contact [email protected].