Mobile School Cook Manager

HCL; Bedford; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Joining bonus £1000

Salary £15.85 per hour

Mileage reimbursement

Uniform provided

Refer a friend bonus up to £500

Career progression

VIVUP discounts

Employee wellbeing support

Enhanced DBS paid by employer

Job summary

HCL is seeking a Mobile Cook Manager to lead school kitchen teams across Hitchin, Luton, Bedford and surrounding areas. You will be hands-on, directing operations, ensuring fresh meals, and maintaining high standards of safety and service in a dynamic school environment.

You will travel between sites, manage budgets and stock, and develop your team while upholding HACCP records and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Must hold Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate.
• NVQ Level 2/3 desirable.
• Strong leadership and budgeting abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage day-to-day kitchen operations across sites.
• Prepare and deliver fresh, nutritious meals.
• Oversee stock control, ordering and budget management.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and health & safety rules.
• Monitor food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and special dietary requirements.
• Build positive relationships with staff, students and the school community.
• Maintain records (HACCP, temperature checks, audits) and develop the team.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Team development

Planning & time management

Education

Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate

NVQ Level 2/3

Job description

Mobile Cook Manager based at Hitchin, Luton, Bedford and surrounding areas - 27.5hpw

At HCL SAFEGUARDING IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY. The safety of children and young people is at the heart of everything we do.

About us

At HCL, we're more than just a caterer. We proudly serve over 16 million meals a year, delivering outstanding dining experiences across schools and the commercial sector.

Mobile Cook Manager

As a Mobile Cook Manager , you won't just run a kitchen - you'll be hands on leading the team, shaping the culture and setting the standard for quality and service that your school will depend on every day.

• Flexible to travel to primary & secondary schools to provide support services as required
• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations
• Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements
• Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits)
• Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive

Ideal Mobile Cook Manager

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (required)
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
• Passionate about delivering fresh, nutritious meals
• An experienced leader who can motivate and develop a high-performing team
• Well-organised, with strong planning and time management skills
• Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations
• Knowledgeable in food safety, allergens, and school food standards
• Committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance
• Proactive, flexible, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Dedicated to providing an excellent dining experience every day

Essential Vehicle Requirements

• Full valid driving licence
• Business insurance
• Valid MOT and road tax
• Access to your own vehicle

Why join us?

• Joining Bonus: £1000! (T&Cs apply)
• Salary: £15.85 per hour (£19,178 per annum)
• Mileage Reimbursement: 55p Per Mile
• Hours: 27.5 hours per week - No Weekends, No Late Nights
• Schedule: Term Time Only - Enjoy all School Holidays off
• Uniform provided
• Rewards: Spread the Word & Earn Up to £500 - Refer a Friend! (T&Cs apply)
• Succeed with us: Career progression opportunities
• Excusive discounts: via VIVUP for supermarkets, cinemas, retail, dining, hotels, and family activities
• Wellbeing matters: Support through EAP & Financial Support via Stream
• Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS Disclosure paid by HCL - No Cost to You

If you're passionate, driven and ready to grow, we'd love to hear from you.