Head Chef - Balanced Shifts, Senior Nutrition Leadership

EQ Care Group; Blackburn; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

½ day off for birthday

Blue Light Discount Card

28 days annual leave

Salary advance scheme

Contributory pension

Learning & Development

Team member rewards

Free meals on shift

Free tax review

Refer a friend scheme

Job summary

EQ Care Group’s Acer Lodge in Blackburn is seeking a Head Chef to lead the catering service for a 70-bed care home specialising in dementia and aging needs. You will manage the kitchen, oversee the team rota, orders, stock control, and ensure allergies are recorded and communicated.

You’ll work to Health and Safety standards, COSHH, and basic food hygiene, while designing menus that balance flavour with nutrition, and supporting residents through food experiences.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3 in food preparation & cooking (or equivalent).
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Experience in a similar care environment is desirable.
• Ability to work on a 7-day rota including weekends.

Responsibilities

• Oversee training, supervision, appraisal and performance of the catering team.
• Manage staff rota to ensure appropriate staffing for each shift.
• Attend meetings and training sessions on-site and off-site as required.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Experience in similar environment

Teamwork and independence

7-day rota flexibility

Education

NVQ Level 3 in food preparation & cooking

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

EQ Care Group’s Acer Lodge in Blackburn is seeking a Head Chef to lead the catering service for a 70-bed care home specialising in dementia and aging needs. You will manage the kitchen, oversee the team rota, orders, stock control, and ensure allergies are recorded and communicated.

You’ll work to Health and Safety standards, COSHH, and basic food hygiene, while designing menus that balance flavour with nutrition, and supporting residents through food experiences.