Kitchen Assistant - Bank

Retirement Villages Group; Saffron Walden; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 17,000; Part time

Job summary

Retirement Villages Group in Saffron Walden is seeking a Kitchen Assistant to join our Hospitality team at Debden Grange. This part-time role on a zero hour contract supports the chef team with basic prep and helps maintain high hygiene standards in a resident-focused environment.

You will work on site, with at least 1 year of similar experience and Food Safety Level 2, or willingness to achieve soon. Join a welcoming team that values service, teamwork and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year in a similar role or relevant transferable skills.
• Food Safety Level 2 achieved or willing to obtain within 1–3 months.
• A proactive, team‑oriented approach and a passion for delivering great service.
• Ability to follow procedures and maintain high standards under pressure.
• Strong time management and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen areas, equipment and utensils.
• Safely receive, store deliveries and prevent cross-contamination.
• Assist with basic food preparation and plating simple dishes.
• Operate dishwashers and manage kitchen waste responsibly.
• Support Head Chef in monitoring food waste and costs.
• Uphold hygiene, health and safety standards at all times.
• Maintain positive relationships with residents and respond to queries.
• Collaborate with colleagues to deliver outstanding hospitality service.

Skills

Teamwork

Customer service

Time management

Education

Food Safety Level 2

Job description

Are you looking to be part of a welcoming, purpose-driven team where your contributions truly matter? At RVG, we believe in creating exceptional food and beverage experiences that support our residents in living well every day.

We're currently seeking a Kitchen Assistant to join our Hospitality team here at Debden Grange, Saffron Walden. This is a hands‑on role where you'll ensure a clean, safe, and organised environment in our kitchen while supporting the Chef team with basic food prep and maintaining high standards of hygiene and service. This is a part-time role working on a zero hour contract to cover holiday and sickness.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen areas, equipment, and utensils.
• Safely receive and store deliveries, ensuring no cross‑contamination.
• Assist with basic food preparation - chopping vegetables, preparing snacks, plating simple dishes.
• Operate and maintain dishwashers; handle kitchen waste responsibly.
• Support the Head Chef in monitoring food waste and cost control.
• Uphold food hygiene, health, and safety standards at all times.
• Create positive relationships with residents and respond courteously to any queries or concerns.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to deliver outstanding hospitality service.

The Ideal Candidate

• Experience: At least 1 year in a similar role or relevant transferable skills.
• Qualifications: Food Safety Level 2 (or willingness to achieve within 1-3 months of joining)
• A proactive, team‑oriented approach and a passion for delivering great service.
• Ability to follow procedures and maintain high standards under pressure.
• Strong time management and organisational skills.

What You’ll Get

• A supportive and inclusive team environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• The chance to make a real difference in the lives of our residents.
• A workplace that lives and breathes our core values:
  • Age Well - Enabling people to thrive as they grow older.
  • Community - Creating strong bonds through shared purpose.
  • Keep Improving - Committing to progress every day.
  • Invest Wisely - Making smart choices for our people and planet.
  • Planet Positive - Doing our part for a sustainable future.
  • One Team - Learning and succeeding together.

Ready to Join Us?

If you're passionate about working in a respectful, resident‑focused environment and want to be part of a team that makes a difference every day, we'd love to hear from you.