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Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); St Albans; On-site; GBP 21,796,000 - 31,043,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniform provided

Refer a Friend bonus

Discounts via VIVUP

Wellbeing support (EAP)

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a Mobile Cook Manager to lead kitchen operations across schools, with hands-on cooking and team leadership. The role requires flexible travel to primary and secondary sites to provide support services.

You will manage budgets, stock, HACCP records, and ensure high standards of food safety and hygiene while delivering nutritious meals and fostering a positive dining experience for pupils.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a kitchen team in a school or catering setting.
• Knowledge of food safety, allergens, and school food standards.
• Well-organised with planning and time management skills.
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable.
• Committed to safeguarding children and young people.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Food safety

HACCP

Allergen awareness

Team development

Time management

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

Job description

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 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.

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

• 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

About the Ideal Mobile 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 complianceProactive, 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

Salary: £15.85 per hour (£19,178 per annum)

Mileage Reimbursement: 55p Per Mile

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