Second Chef | Hospital Kitchen Lead for Nutritious Meals

Bupa; Greater London; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave 25 days + bank holidays

In-house training

Company pension scheme

Life assurance

Employee Referral Scheme

Subsidised staff restaurant

Interest free travel loan

Private healthcare

Bicycle Loan Scheme

Retailer discounts

Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

New Victoria Hospital in Kingston upon Thames is seeking an experienced Second Chef to support the Head Chef in delivering nutritious, high-quality meals to patients, visitors and staff.

The role covers menu development, food safety compliance, stock control and cost management in a fast-paced hospital kitchen, with a 7-day rota. You will lead by example and help maintain high standards of cleanliness and service.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 and Level 3 in Professional Cookery, Catering or equivalent qualification.
• Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Significant experience working within a professional catering environment.
• Strong knowledge of food safety legislation and kitchen hygiene standards.
• Experience of stock control, ordering and cost management.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a fast-paced environment.
• Flexible approach with the ability to work across a 7-day rota.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and present meals to consistently high standards.
• Support the planning and development of menus that are nutritious, varied and patient focused.
• Ensure all meals are produced in line with dietary, allergen and nutritional requirements.
• Assist with stock control, ordering and inventory management.
• Monitor food quality, portion control and presentation standards.
• Maintain rigorous food safety, hygiene and infection prevention standards.
• Complete daily kitchen documentation, including temperature monitoring and cleaning records.
• Minimise food waste and contribute to efficient cost management.
• Support and guide catering team members to ensure a collaborative and productive working environment.
• Deputise for the Head Chef when required.
• Contribute to catering for special events and functions across the hospital.
• Build positive working relationships with clinical and operational teams to support excellent patient care.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Fast-paced environment

7-day rota flexibility

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 in Cookery

Job description

New Victoria Hospital in Kingston upon Thames is seeking an experienced Second Chef to support the Head Chef in delivering nutritious, high-quality meals to patients, visitors and staff.

The role covers menu development, food safety compliance, stock control and cost management in a fast-paced hospital kitchen, with a 7-day rota. You will lead by example and help maintain high standards of cleanliness and service.