Cook (House in the Wells)

Apex Housing Association; Northern Ireland; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading housing association in Northern Ireland seeks a professional cook to support a male harm reduction hostel. Responsibilities include overseeing kitchen operations and providing meals for up to 24 residents. Candidates should have relevant qualifications and experience in catering. The position offers competitive pay, family-friendly policies, and opportunities for career development.

Benefits

Competitive pay

20-23 days annual leave plus public holidays

Contributory pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Comprehensive paid induction programme

Qualifications

• Must have 6 months of experience as a professional cook or 1 year without the qualification.
• Ability to oversee daily kitchen operations.

Responsibilities

• Provide meals in a professional kitchen environment.
• Support and care for homeless men with addiction issues.

Skills

Professional cooking

Kitchen operations oversight

Experience in catering

Education

QCF/NVQ level 2 or equivalent in catering

Job description

POST: 1x37hrs Permanent Post and Reserve List
LOCATION: House in the Wells

The House in the Wells is a male harm reduction hostel accommodation giving support and care for up to 24 homeless men with addiction issues and is situated close to the city centre of Derry~Londonderry. The House in the Wells provides 24-hour staff support services, 365 days a year.

Essential Criteria

• QCF/NVQ level 2, City & Guilds or alternative equivalent qualification in catering
• 6 months experience working as a professional cook OR a minimum of 1 year's experience working as a professional cook if you do not hold the above qualification.
• Experience of overseeing the day-to-day operation of a professional kitchen.

This is a regulated post and will be subject to a satisfactory Access NI check.

All successful applicants will also be required to provide documentary evidence of their right to work in the UK. Please note Apex do not hold a license to sponsor Working Visa's.

Apex is an equal opportunities employer. At this time we particularly welcome applications from members of the Protestant community, due to under representations in parts of our workforce.

Why Work for Apex?

We offer:

• Competitive pay
• Family friendly policies and flexible working opportunities
• Opportunities to learn, develop and progress in your position
• 20-23 days annual leave plus 12 public holidays, increasing with length of service
• Contributory pension scheme
• Enhanced sick pay, maternity pay and paternity pay
• Workplace savings scheme and monthly cash draw for staff (optional)
• Charity partnership with Children in Crossfire
• Excellent opportunities for development including support for further education courses
• Employee Assistance Programme provided by Inspire Workplaces including 24hr adviceline
• Bike to Work Scheme
• Staff wellbeing initiatives e.g. health screening programmes (Action Cancer)

Staff in care and support roles also enjoy the following additional benefits:

• Comprehensive paid induction programme
• Enhanced pay over Christmas & New Year
• Enhanced rate for overtime worked
• Free on-site car parking

Closing Date: Wednesday 15th October 2025

Application Process: If you are interested in this position please apply online via