Care Home Cook

Care Home Cook Job Description

Job Title: Care Home Cook
Location: Mercer Moors Residential Home
Hours: 08:00am - 4:00pm, 5 Days per Week
Reports To: Registered Manager

Job Purpose

To prepare and serve nutritious, high-quality meals that meet the dietary, cultural and personal preferences of residents. The Cook will ensure that all food is prepared safely, hygienically and in accordance with food safety regulations, whilst contributing to a positive dining experience for residents.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Service

• Plan, prepare and cook breakfast, lunch, tea and snacks for residents.
• Ensure meals are nutritious, well-presented and appetising.
• Cater for special diets, allergies, cultural preferences and modified textures as required.
• Ensure residents have a choice of meals wherever possible.
• Monitor portion sizes and minimise food waste.

Kitchen Management

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the kitchen.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is used safely and maintained appropriately.
• Complete daily and weekly cleaning schedules.
• Monitor stock levels and notify management when supplies need ordering.
• Rotate stock using FIFO (First In, First Out) practices.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Follow food hygiene regulations and HACCP requirements.
• Record fridge, freezer and food temperatures accurately.
• Ensure food is stored safely and within expiry dates.
• Report any food safety concerns immediately.
• Comply with all health and safety, infection control and COSHH procedures.

Resident Wellbeing

• Engage positively with residents and seek feedback about meals.
• Promote hydration and nutritional wellbeing.
• Support special events, themed meals and celebrations within the home.

Team Working

• Work closely with care staff to ensure residents' dietary needs are met.
• Attend meetings and training as required.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues and management.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience preparing meals in a commercial kitchen.
• Knowledge of food safety and infection control requirements.
• Good communication and organisational skills.
• Reliable, punctual and able to work independently.