Chef

Job summary

Job details

Chef

21 hours per week

The home

Merse House is a 32 bed care home based in Kirkcudbright in Dumfries and Galloway, South West Scotland, providing specialist residential care to older people and people living with dementia. Overlooking the River Dee it is close to many areas of outstanding beauty.

Key Responsibilities

·  Meal Preparation & Service

·  Plan and prepare daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks) for residents

·  Cater for special dietary requirements (e.g., diabetic, low-salt, vegetarian, allergies, texture-modified diets)

·  Ensure meals are appetising, well-presented, and served on time

·  Prepare meals for staff if required

·  Menu Planning

·  Create varied, seasonal menus in line with nutritional guidelines

·  Consult with residents and care staff about preferences and feedback

·  Adjust menus to accommodate cultural or religious needs

·  Food Safety & Hygiene

·  Comply with food hygiene regulations (e.g., HACCP principles)

·  Maintain a clean, safe kitchen environment

·  Monitor food storage, stock rotation, and temperature checks

·  Keep accurate records (cleaning schedules, fridge/freezer temps, etc.)

·  Stock Control

·  Order food supplies and manage kitchen inventory

·  Minimise waste and operate within budget

·  Check deliveries for quality and quantity

·  Health & Wellbeing Support

·  Work with care staff to understand residents’ nutritional needs

·  Support residents with dignity and respect during mealtimes

·  Be aware of issues like malnutrition, dehydration, or swallowing difficulties

What We Offer

• Ongoing professional development and leadership training
• Competitive hourly pay + pension scheme
• Supportive, friendly working environment
• Company pension scheme