Healthcare Kitchen Assistant & Backup Cook

Canterbury District Health Board; Rangiora; On-site; NZD 42,000 - 54,000; Part time

Job summary

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora in Rangiora invites applications for a Food Service Assistant. Working in the patient dining and Meals on Wheels program, you’ll help with daily food preparation, plating, and delivery, and may step in as Cook when needed.

You’ll follow Food Control Plans, keep a clean kitchen, and support a respectful team while upholding privacy and cultural safety including Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Qualifications

• Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of food safety requirements and Food Control Plans.
• Knowledge of dietary needs, allergens, and nutritional supplements.
• Physically fit and able to move and handle safely.
• Ability to work well in a team and manage time effectively.
• NZQAFood Handling Certificate (Units 167/168).
• Previous kitchen cleaning or food service experience, ideally in healthcare.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily food preparation, portioning, and plating.
• Prepare vegetables, salads, and other menu items as needed.
• Prepare food for Meals on Wheels and patient services.
• Adhere to the site Food Control Plan and food safety protocols.
• Provide cover for the Cook, following recipes and dietary guidelines.
• Maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen environment, including benches, equipment, and service areas.
• Complete cleaning schedules, waste handling, and stock replenishment.
• Contribute to a safe, respectful, and positive team culture.
• Uphold patient privacy, cultural safety, and equitable health outcomes, with a focus on Māori health gain and Te Tiriti o Waitangi in action.

Skills

Verbal communication

Customer service

Food safety knowledge

Dietary needs awareness

Teamwork

Physical fitness

Moving & handling

Education

NZQA Food Handling Certificate (Units 167/168)

Job description

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora in Rangiora invites applications for a Food Service Assistant. Working in the patient dining and Meals on Wheels program, you’ll help with daily food preparation, plating, and delivery, and may step in as Cook when needed.

You’ll follow Food Control Plans, keep a clean kitchen, and support a respectful team while upholding privacy and cultural safety including Te Tiriti o Waitangi.