Elms Cook

Dens Ltd; Hemel Hempstead; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A community-focused organization is seeking a passionate Cook to join their team at a mixed hostel. The role involves preparing high-quality meals, ensuring safety and compliance with health standards, and managing kitchen operations while catering to dietary requirements. Ideal candidates should have a Food Hygiene Certificate, relevant cooking experience, and a commitment to excellent service. This part-time position offers flexible working hours and several employee benefits, including professional development opportunities.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Flexible working environment

Medicash plan

Professional development and training

NEST pension scheme

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a kitchen, preferably in schools, colleges, or care homes.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Produce high-quality hot meals and desserts following meal plans.
• Maintain health and safety standards and keep records updated.
• Manage food prep and minimize waste.
• Ensure dietary requirements and allergens are managed accurately.

Skills

Strong verbal communication

Passion for wholesome food

Education

Food Hygiene Certificate

Recognized catering qualification or equivalent experience

Job description

DENS is looking for a passionate and experienced Cook to join our team at The Elms, our 44‑bedroom mixed hostel. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys working independently and wants to make a tangible difference in the lives of our residents through nutritious, high‑quality food.

• Meal Preparation: Safely produce high‑quality hot meals, desserts, and drinks, ensuring they are nutritional, varied, and follow agreed meal plans.
• Safety & Compliance: Maintain strict Health & Safety standards and keep the 'Safer Food Better Business for Caterers' records updated.
• Kitchen Management: Manage food prep, minimize waste, keep catering areas clean and well‑stocked, and liaise with the Head Chef.
• Allergen Awareness: Ensure all dietary requirements and common allergens are managed with total accuracy.
• Experience: Previous experience in a kitchen (schools, colleges, or care homes is a plus) and the ability to work confidently on your own.
• Qualifications: A current Food Hygiene Certificate is essential. A recognized catering qualification or equivalent professional experience is required.
• Skills: Strong verbal communication and a passion for simple, wholesome, and well‑presented food.
• Values: A commitment to excellent customer service and a supportive attitude toward our residents.
• This role is subject to safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS check.
• £16.25 per hour Part‑time (6 hours Saturdays and or Sundays) Permanent.
• Actively Interviewing, 25 days or equivalent annual leave, Flexible working environment, Medicash plan, including Virtual GP, some dental and optical cover, Employee assistance programme – 24/7 mental health support helpline, Professional development and training, NEST pension scheme.