Second Chef Bank

TN United Kingdom; Greater London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Join an award-winning catering team as a Second Chef, where you will have the autonomy to create nutritious and well-balanced menus. This role offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in residents' lives while enjoying a work-life balance and excellent training. You will be part of a supportive environment that values teamwork, culinary innovation, and personal growth. With opportunities for career progression into Head Chef roles, this position is perfect for aspiring chefs looking to thrive in a fulfilling career within the care sector.

Benefits

Competitive Pay

Career Progression Opportunities

Refer a Friend Scheme

Free Training

Cycle to Work Scheme

Free DBS Check

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Essential qualifications include a Catering Diploma and NVQ Level 2/3 in practical cookery.
• Good knowledge of nutritionally balanced menu planning and dietary needs.

Responsibilities

• Control kitchen operations in the absence of the Head Chef.
• Develop meals suitable for various diets using fresh local produce.

Skills

Teamwork

Menu Planning

Catering Experience

Problem Solving

Education

Catering Diploma (City & Guilds/BTEC)

NVQ Level 2/3 in Practical Cookery

Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2)

Job description

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Join Care UK as a Second Chef

If you’re an aspiring chef with experience in a high-paced kitchen environment and are looking for a rewarding role with excellent training, work-life balance, and the opportunity to be part of an award-winning catering team, consider joining Care UK as a Second Chef and make a real difference.

Being a Second Chef at Care UK

Second Chefs excel at teamwork, sharing information, and raising standards through culinary development, innovation, and new ideas. They have access to a large supply chain for catering needs and the autonomy to create nutritious, well-balanced menus. They are self-motivated, flexible, enthusiastic, and responsible for resolving issues while maintaining team discipline and morale. Do you possess these qualities? Then this could be the perfect role for you.

What you’ll be doing

As a Second Chef, your role goes beyond assisting the Head Chef; it involves taking control of kitchen operations in their absence. You will use modern equipment and fresh local produce to develop meals suitable for various diets, ensuring flavor and nutrition. You’ll help develop menus, consult with residents to meet their needs and preferences, and prepare food that adheres to specific dietary requirements. Ultimately, your work will make a meaningful difference in residents’ lives.

What you’ll need

Essential qualifications include a Catering Diploma (City & Guilds/BTEC), NVQ Level 2/3 in practical cookery, and Food Hygiene Certificates (minimum Level 2). You should have good knowledge of nutritionally balanced menu planning and experience catering to specific dietary needs. Experience in a care home, stock control, or working within a budget is advantageous but not mandatory. Above all, you should have a genuine desire to make others’ lives more fulfilling and be willing to work in a challenging yet rewarding environment.

The benefits

• Alternate weekend working and sociable hours
• Competitive pay, regularly reviewed based on local market conditions
• Opportunities for career progression into Head Chef roles
• Refer a friend scheme earning up to £1000
• Free training to develop your skills
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free DBS check
• Discounts on holidays, shopping, and travel through online and in-store offers
• Employee Assistance Programme providing 24/7 confidential support on legal, financial, and personal issues

Care UK is a leading UK care provider with over 120 homes and day clubs offering residential, nursing, dementia, and end-of-life care for older adults. We are committed to supporting our employees’ growth through first-class training and support.