Deputy Cook

We are looking for a Deputy Cook who will help us provide varied, wholesome and nutritious meals that residents can look forward to each day. As Deputy Cook, you will work closely with the Head Cook and wider care team to ensure residents dietary needs, preferences and choices are understood and reflected in the meals provided. You will help with the smooth running of the kitchen and take responsibility for the kitchen when the Head Cook is absent.

What you will be doing 

• Preparing, cooking and serving nutritious hot and cold meals 

• Supporting residents with special dietary requirements and preferences 

• Contributing to menu planning and varied meal choices 

• Helping to order food supplies, check deliveries and maintain stock control 

• Recording fridge, freezer and food temperatures accurately 

• Maintaining HACCP, Safer Food Better Business and kitchen records 

• Keeping the kitchen clean, safe and well organised 

• Communicating with care staff about resident needs and changes 

• Supporting junior kitchen colleagues with safe working and good food hygiene practice 

Who we are looking for 

• A caring and reliable person who enjoys cooking for others 

• Someone with previous cooking, chef or catering experience 

• Good knowledge of food hygiene and safe kitchen practice 

• An understanding of nutrition and dietary needs 

• A team player with good communication skills 

• Someone organised, flexible and able to use their own initiative 

• A sense of warmth, humour and respect for older people

Benefits 

• Competitive hourly rates, with enhanced weekend and overtime rates 

• Paid breaks 

• Paid training and comprehensive induction 

• Free uniform, free DBS check and free car parking 

• 5.6 weeks annual leave, pro rata 

• Pension scheme and Life Insurance Scheme 

• Employee Assistance Programme 

• Enhanced Company Maternity Pay and Enhanced Company Paternity Pay 

• Long Service Bonus Scheme and Annual Bonus Scheme 

• Career development opportunities 

• Supportive, friendly and values-led working environment 

What makes this role special? 

This is a role where your work is seen and appreciated every day. A favourite meal, a well-presented plate or a thoughtful adjustment for an individual resident can make a meaningful difference. If you want to cook in a setting where kindness matters as much as skill, we would love to hear from you.