Head Chef – Care Home Kitchen Leader, Balanced Hours

EQ Care; Preston; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Half-day birthday off

Blue Light Discount Card

28 days annual leave (pro rata)

Salary advance scheme

Contributory pension

Dedicated Learning & Development

Team member rewards

Free meals on shift

Free tax review service

Job summary

Acer Lodge, operated by EQ Care, is seeking a Head Chef who can lead a kitchen focused on nutritious meals for an older population. You’ll manage the catering team, coordinate stock and orders, and ensure all allergies and safety guidelines are up to date.

The role emphasizes work-life balance with a 7-day rota and a supportive, person-centered approach. The role requires NVQ Level 3 in food preparation & cooking (or willingness to complete) and strong IT skills.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3 in food preparation & cooking (or equivalent) desired or willingness to complete.
• Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office and internal applications; ability to learn new systems quickly.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the training, supervision, appraisal, and performance management of the catering team.
• Ensure staff rota is completed in a timely manner, maintaining appropriate staffing levels for each shift.
• Attend meetings and training sessions, on-site and off-site, as required.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and statutory requirements and company policies.
• Maintain Health and Safety knowledge: Basic Food Hygiene, COSHH, safe handling and cross-infection guidelines.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Home Manager to support operations.

Skills

Team leadership

IT literacy

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Food Preparation & Cooking

Job description

Acer Lodge, operated by EQ Care, is seeking a Head Chef who can lead a kitchen focused on nutritious meals for an older population. You’ll manage the catering team, coordinate stock and orders, and ensure all allergies and safety guidelines are up to date.

The role emphasizes work-life balance with a 7-day rota and a supportive, person-centered approach. The role requires NVQ Level 3 in food preparation & cooking (or willingness to complete) and strong IT skills.