At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare delicious dishes and manage cooking processes in a dynamic kitchen environment.
- Company: Join OCS UK & Ireland, a top facilities management company with over 50,000 colleagues.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible shifts, professional development opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Kickstart your culinary career while making a positive impact in education and healthcare sectors.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef and Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality are preferred.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
About The Company:
OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with a turnover of £1.7bn and 50,000+ colleagues. We deliver innovative, award-winning services to the public and private sectors and our mission is to make people and places the best they can be.
This role sits within our Catering business division that provides hospitality and catering, private dining, vending & corporate event services to a wide range of prestigious clients, within the Education & Healthcare market.
Working at OCS is more than just a job; it’s an amazing opportunity to begin or expand your career in Facilities Management. OCS has an ambition to become an 'Employer of choice' in our sector and is proud to invest in our colleague's personal and professional development. OCS provides our colleagues with opportunities to gain qualifications through funded development programmes aligned to the knowledge, skills, and behaviours attached to their roles.
About The Role:
Shift Pattern: 3 days per week. Day shifts only.
As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- Handle day-to-day food preparation and duties assigned by senior chefs to meet the sites standards and quality.
- Manage the cooking process at their specific station of several dishes, ensuring that the food is delivered in a timely manner.
- Be responsible for safety, hygiene, and correct use of department utensils and equipment on site always.
- Notify Senior Chefs of inventory when running low by ensuring that the kitchen remains adequately stocked with fresh ingredients and catering necessities.
- Work with the rest of the culinary team to ensure high-quality food and service is maintained throughout the shift.
What are we looking for?
- Proven experience as a Chef role is desired. Candidates should have experience working in a similar role within Contract Catering.
- Possess a Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality or equivalent.
- Understand and be able to demonstrate various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment and processes is essential. Candidates should also be able to multitask and work efficiently under pressure.
- The ability to work well in a team is crucial. Candidates should have excellent listening and communication skills.
- Understand the standard legal policies and procedures regarding receiving, preparation, storage and sanitation of food and the menu items fully, including the recipes, production and presentation methods.
The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:
- Must have the Right to Work in the UK.
- Must be prepared to undergo a DBS or Enhanced security check.
- City & Guilds certification, BTEC, or NVQ at a basic level is required.
- Additionally, completing a food hygiene course at Level 2 would be desirable.
- Excellent customer service skills are essential.
- Good time-management and organisational abilities.
How to Apply:
If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available.
We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.
Chef employer: OCS Group
Contact Detail:
OCS Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific culinary styles and dishes that OCS UK & Ireland is known for. Research their catering services in the Education and Healthcare sectors to understand their clientele better, which will help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of OCS to gain insights into the company culture and expectations. This can provide you with valuable information that you can use to demonstrate your fit for the role during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with food safety and hygiene regulations, as these are crucial in a catering environment. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've maintained high standards in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your teamwork skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in a kitchen setting. Highlighting your ability to work under pressure while maintaining quality will resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Chef position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in food preparation, cooking methods, and teamwork.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous roles in catering or hospitality. Mention specific achievements or experiences that demonstrate your ability to work under pressure and maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to include any certifications you have, such as Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality or food hygiene courses. Discuss your cooking techniques and how you can contribute to the culinary team at OCS.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for the role and the company. Explain why you want to work at OCS and how your skills align with their mission to provide excellent catering services.
How to prepare for a job interview at OCS Group
✨Showcase Your Culinary Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in the kitchen. Highlight specific dishes you've mastered and any unique cooking methods you excel at. If possible, bring a portfolio of your work or photos of your dishes to impress the interviewers.
✨Understand Food Safety Regulations
Familiarise yourself with food safety and hygiene standards relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in your previous positions, as this is crucial for maintaining high standards in the kitchen.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork
Since working well in a team is essential, prepare examples of how you've collaborated with others in a kitchen environment. Discuss any challenges faced and how you overcame them together to deliver quality service.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s catering services and their approach to culinary excellence. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it's the right fit for you.