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Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Colchester; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 19,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniform provided

Enhanced DBS paid by HCL

Term-time schedule

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a Cook Manager at Hazelemere Junior School to lead a kitchen team, prepare nutritious meals, manage stock and budgets, and ensure strict food safety compliance. This role is ideal for an experienced leader dedicated to safeguarding and delivering high-quality dining in a school setting.

The position requires strong planning and time management, knowledge of food safety, and the ability to work within term-time hours.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable.
• Proven leadership and ability to develop a high-performing kitchen team.
• Strong planning, organisation and time management.
• Confident budgeting, stock control and HACCP records.
• Good knowledge of school food standards and allergen management.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage 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.
• Monitor food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and special dietary requirements.
• Build relationships with staff, students and the school community.
• Maintain records such as HACCP, temperature checks and audits.
• Inspire and develop the team to grow and thrive.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Budget management

Stock control

Food safety

Allergen handling

Team development

Planning skills

Education

NVQ 2/3 desirable

Job description

Cook Manager based at Hazelemere Junior School 27.5 Hours

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.

As a

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.

Let's talk about the role of a Cook Manager:

• 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

About the Ideal Cook Manager:

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
• 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

Salary: £14.99 per hour (£18,137 per annum)

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

Exclusive discounts: via VIVUP for supermarkets, cinemas, retail, dining, hotels, and family activities

Well being matters: Support through EAP & Financial Support via Stream

Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS Disclosure paid by HCL -

No Cost to You