Cook Manager

HCL; Welwyn Hatfield; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 18,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Joining bonus £1000

Uniform provided

Refer a Friend bonus

DBS paid by employer

Wellbeing support (EAP)

Exclusive discounts via VIVUP

Job summary

HCL is seeking a Cook Manager at Oaklands Primary School for 27.5 hours per week. The role focuses on hands-on kitchen leadership, delivering nutritious meals and maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety. Term-time hours enable time off during holidays.

The ideal candidate will have Food Hygiene Level 2, with NVQ 2/3 desirable, and a proven ability to lead a team while managing budgets and stock efficiently.

Qualifications

• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate is required.
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable.
• Committed to safeguarding children and young people.
• Well-organised with planning and time management skills.
• Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations.

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.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Food safety

Allergen management

Record keeping

Team development

Time management

Communication

Education

Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate

NVQ Level 2/3

Tools

HACCP knowledge

Job description

Cook Manager based at Oaklands Primary School 27.5hpw

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:£13.22 per hour (£15,996 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

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