Cook Manager

HCL; Hitchin; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 19,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Joining bonus £1000

Uniform provided

Term time only - holidays off

Job summary

HCL is seeking a Cook Manager at Whitehill Junior School, 27.5 hours per week, term-time only. You will lead the kitchen team, plan meals, manage stock and budgets, and ensure food safety standards.

Key requirements include Food Hygiene Level 2 and ideally NVQ Level 2/3; a passion for fresh meals and strong leadership are essential. Joining bonus and uniform provided. Opportunity for progression.

Qualifications

• Leadership of a kitchen team to deliver healthy, nutritious meals.
• Ability to plan, order, and manage budgets and stock effectively.
• Knowledge of food safety, HACCP, allergens and school food standards.

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 dietary requirements.
• Build positive relationships with staff, students and school community.
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspire and develop your team and foster a thriving environment.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Food safety

HACCP records

Allergen management

Planning & organising

Education

Food Hygiene Level 2

NVQ Level 2/3 desirable

Job description

Cook Manager based at Whitehill Junior 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.

Role 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 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
• Exclusive 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