School Kitchen Lead & Cook Manager (Term-Time)

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Hitchin; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Refer a Friend bonus up to £500

Career progression opportunities

Exclusive discounts via VIVUP

Wellbeing support (EAP)

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a proactive Cook Manager for Whitehill Junior School in Hitchin. You will lead the kitchen team, prepare nutritious meals, manage stock and budgets, and ensure compliance with food safety and school standards.

The role is term-time only with a salary of £13.76 per hour (£16,654 per year). You’ll drive high-quality dining experiences while safeguarding pupils and developing your team in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 (desirable) and evidence of kitchen leadership.
• Experience leading a team in a school or commercial kitchen.

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 regulations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Maintain records (HACCP, temperatures, audits).

Skills

Team leadership

Budget management

Food safety

HACCP

Allergen awareness

IT systems

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

Tools

Kitchen IT systems

Job description

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a proactive Cook Manager for Whitehill Junior School in Hitchin. You will lead the kitchen team, prepare nutritious meals, manage stock and budgets, and ensure compliance with food safety and school standards.

The role is term-time only with a salary of £13.76 per hour (£16,654 per year). You’ll drive high-quality dining experiences while safeguarding pupils and developing your team in a fast-paced environment.