Custodial Kitchen Chef: Lead Safe, Nutritious Meals

Serco; Greater London; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays

Free on site car parking

Up to 6% contributory pension

Internal courses and apprenticeships

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts across retailers

Volunteer day

Hybrid working where possible

Job summary

Serco in London is seeking a Chef for HMP Thameside to prepare nutritious meals, meet dietary requirements, and support a busy custodial catering operation. You will help uphold food safety, supervise catering staff, and ensure smooth day-to-day service within a secure environment.

Applicants should have experience in large-scale catering, relevant food safety qualifications, and strong teamwork. The role offers a strong benefits package and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a large-scale catering environment such as healthcare, custodial, military, education, or similar settings.
• Food Safety Level 2 or Level 3 qualification, or willingness to obtain where required.
• Good understanding of food hygiene, allergen management, and HACCP principles.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to support and guide others.
• Able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook varied, nutritious meals, including special dietary, cultural, and religious requirements.
• Support the delivery of catering services in line with Serco standards and all relevant food safety regulations.
• Maintain food safety, hygiene, storage, and stock control procedures, ensuring accurate records are completed.
• Provide guidance and supervision to catering assistants and prisoners working within the catering department.
• Carry out equipment checks, report faults, and help ensure all catering facilities remain safe and operational.
• Support the Head Chef and Catering Manager and deputise when required to ensure continuity of service.

Job description

Serco in London is seeking a Chef for HMP Thameside to prepare nutritious meals, meet dietary requirements, and support a busy custodial catering operation. You will help uphold food safety, supervise catering staff, and ensure smooth day-to-day service within a secure environment.

Applicants should have experience in large-scale catering, relevant food safety qualifications, and strong teamwork. The role offers a strong benefits package and opportunities for professional development.