Cook Manager

HCL; Baldock; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 18,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Joining bonus: £1000

Uniform provided

Refer a Friend bonus

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

HCL is hiring a Cook Manager for St Mary's Junior Mixed School. You will lead a school kitchen, prepare nutritious meals, manage stock and budget, and ensure HACCP compliance. The role is 27.5 hours per week during term time, with no weekends or late nights.

You will supervise staff, monitor allergens and food safety, and drive high standards of hygiene and service while fostering a positive school community.

Qualifications

• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate is required.
• Committed to safeguarding children and young people.
• Strong leadership and budgeting abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced school kitchen.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations.
• Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals.
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements.
• Build relationships with staff, students and the school community.
• Maintain records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspire and develop your team to grow and thrive.

Skills

Team leadership

Time management

Budget management

Allergen awareness

Food safety

Communication

Education

Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate

NVQ Level 2/3 (desirable)

Job description

Cook Manager based at St Mary's Junior Mixed School 27.5 Hours

At HCL SAFEGUARDING IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY. The safety of children and young people is at the heart of everything we do.

About us:

At HCL, we're more than just a caterer. We proudly serve over 16 million meals a year, delivering outstanding dining experiences across schools and the commercial sector.

As a Cook Manager, you won't just run a kitchen - you'll be hands on leading the team, shaping the culture and setting the standard for quality and service that your school will depend on every day.

Let's talk about the role of a Cook Manager:

• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations
• Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements
• Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits)
• Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive

About the Ideal Cook Manager:

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (required)
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
• Passionate about delivering fresh, nutritious meals
• An experienced leader who can motivate and develop a high-performing team
• Well-organised, with strong planning and time management skills
• Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations
• Knowledgeable in food safety, allergens, and school food standards
• Committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance
• Proactive, flexible, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Dedicated to providing an excellent dining experience every day

Why join us?

• Joining Bonus: £1000! (T&Cs apply)
• Salary: £13.76 per hour (£16,654 per annum)
• Hours: 27.5 hours per week - No Weekends, No Late Nights
• Schedule: Term Time Only - Enjoy all School Holidays off
• Uniform provided
• Rewards: Spread the Word & Earn Up to £500 - Refer a Friend! (T&Cs apply)
• Succeed with us: Career progression opportunities
• Excusive discounts: via VIVUP for supermarkets, cinemas, retail, dining, hotels, and family activities
• Wellbeing matters: Support through EAP & Financial Support via Stream
• Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS Disclosure paid by HCL - No Cost to You