Cook

Part-Time Cook / Kitchen Manager

Working Hours

• Days: Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
• Hours: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm (14:00-18:00)

Location

Housing Association supporting residents with mental health needs.

Job Purpose

We are looking for a reliable, organised, and experienced Cook / Kitchen Manager to prepare fresh, nutritious meals for residents living within a supported housing environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the kitchen, including menu planning, food preparation, stock management, and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare fresh, home-cooked meals from scratch for up to 20 residents.
• Develop weekly menus that provide balanced, nutritious, and varied meals.
• Submit menus to the Manager in advance to allow sufficient time for food orders to be placed.
• Be responsible for identifying and requesting all food and kitchen supplies required for planned menus.
• Manage the day-to-day operation of the kitchen independently.
• Prepare, cook, and serve meals within the allocated working hours.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and kitchen organisation.
• Clean all kitchen equipment, work surfaces, utensils, and cooking areas after each shift.
• Ensure food is stored, handled, and prepared safely in accordance with current food hygiene regulations.
• Monitor stock levels and minimise food waste.
• Report any equipment faults or maintenance issues to the Manager promptly.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience preparing fresh meals from scratch.
• Ability to plan nutritious and cost-effective menus.
• Good organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a kitchen without supervision.
• Knowledge of food hygiene and food safety regulations.
• Understanding of safe food storage and stock rotation.

Desirable

• Previous experience working within a care, supported housing, or mental health environment.
• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above).

Key Skills

• Cooking and meal preparation
• Kitchen management
• Menu planning
• Stock managementOrganisation and planning
• Food hygiene and safety
• Cleaning and maintaining kitchen standards
• Good communication with management regarding menu planning and food requirements

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