Care Home Chef

Job Purpose

To plan, prepare, and serve nutritious, high-quality meals for residents in line with individual dietary needs, preferences, and health requirements, while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and hygiene.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook balanced meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
• Cater for special dietary requirements (e.g., diabetic, vegetarian, soft food, allergen-free diets)
• Ensure meals meet nutritional guidelines for elderly and vulnerable residents
• Create weekly menus in collaboration with management and residents where possible
• Manage kitchen stock, ordering, and stock rotation (FIFO system)
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of the kitchen at all times
• Follow all Food Safety, HACCP, and infection control procedures
• Ensure compliance with environmental health and care home regulations
• Monitor portion control and food waste reduction
• Supervise kitchen assistants or kitchen porters when required

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience working in a care home or healthcare setting
• Level 3 Food Hygiene or NVQ in Professional Cookery
• Experience in menu planning and budgeting
• Understanding of nutritional needs for older adults

Personal Qualities

• Compassionate and patient approach
• Attention to detail
• Reliable and punctual
• Able to work under pressure
• Strong communication skills

Qualifications

• Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene (minimum requirement)
• Basic DBS check (enhanced DBS may be required depending on employer)