Cook Manager

HCL; Markyate; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 22,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Joining bonus £1000

Uniform provided

Refer a Friend bonus up to £500

School holidays off

Job summary

HCL Safeguarding is our priority. The Cook Manager leads daily kitchen operations at Margaret Wix Primary School, ensuring nutritious meals and high standards. You’ll manage stock, budgets, and records, while driving food safety and team development.

The role is 27.5 hours per week with no weekends, offering a joining bonus and uniform provided. You’ll work in a supportive school environment with opportunities for progression.

Qualifications

• Must have Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate.
• NVQ Level 2/3 is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead 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 (HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Develop and inspire your team to grow and thrive.

Skills

Team leadership

Food safety

Allergen management

Budget management

Stock control

HACCP compliance

IT systems catering

Education

Food Hygiene Level 2

NVQ Level 2/3

Tools

Catering IT software

Job description

Cook Manager based at Margaret Wix Primary 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
• Proficient in IT systems used within catering and kitchen operations
• Proficient in IT systems used within catering and kitchen operations

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

If you're passionate, driven and ready to grow, we'd love to hear from you.