Second Chef: Rewarding Kitchen Lead with Growth & Perks

Care UK; Whitburn; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Alternate weekends

Competitive pay

Career progression

Refer a friend bonus up to £1000

Training & development

Bank holiday uplift

Cycle to work

Free DBS check

Shopping discounts

Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

Care UK is seeking a Second Chef to support our busy kitchen in a care home environment. You will ensure meals meet high standards, manage day-to-day kitchen operations and contribute to nutritious, well-balanced menus using local produce.

The role emphasizes teamwork, training opportunities and a chance to help residents enjoy varied, diet-appropriate meals while maintaining food safety and quality throughout service.

Qualifications

• Catering Diploma (City & Guilds/BTEC) and NVQ 2/3 in practical cookery and Health and Safety.
• Food Hygiene Certificates (minimum level 2) are essential.
• Strong knowledge of nutritionally balanced menu planning.
• Experience in care home settings and with stock control or budgeting is a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

• Take control of running the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence.
• Use modern kitchen equipment and local produce to develop diet-sensitive meals.
• Help create menus and consult with residents to meet their needs and specific diets.
• Prepare food in line with dietary requirements and instructions.
• Strive to make a real difference in residents' dining experiences.

Skills

Menu planning

Stock control

Budget management

Team collaboration

Education

Catering Diploma (City & Guilds/BTEC)

NVQ 2/3 in practical cookery

Health and Safety

Job description

Care UK is seeking a Second Chef to support our busy kitchen in a care home environment. You will ensure meals meet high standards, manage day-to-day kitchen operations and contribute to nutritious, well-balanced menus using local produce.

The role emphasizes teamwork, training opportunities and a chance to help residents enjoy varied, diet-appropriate meals while maintaining food safety and quality throughout service.