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- Tasks: Join our catering team to create delicious meals for students and events in a vibrant kitchen.
- Company: UCEN Manchester is a leading institution with cutting-edge facilities in the heart of the city.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days annual leave, well-being days, retail discounts, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative environment that values fresh food and teamwork while achieving operational excellence.
- Qualifications: NVQ level 2 or relevant qualification and experience in large-scale catering are essential.
- Other info: This role requires a DBS check and promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are looking for a skilled and passionate Chef to join our catering team at UCEN Manchester's City Centre Campus. You will play a key role in delivering high-quality meals for students, staff, and events, working in a fast-paced, professional kitchen environment. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who takes pride in fresh, nutritious food and thrives in a team setting. Experience in high-volume catering and a strong understanding of food hygiene standards are essential. If you are looking for a rewarding role with a great work-life balance, we want to hear from you.
We have an exciting opportunity at our City Centre Campus in Manchester to join our Facilities Department as a Chef on a permanent, full-time (35 hours per week) basis.
Site Information
Our City Centre campus is a flagship site in the heart of Manchester, offering cutting-edge facilities and a buzzing, creative atmosphere. Home to our Centre of Excellence for Creative and Digital Industries, it provides an inspiring setting for both staff and learners, with specialist studios, workshops, and collaborative spaces. With its central location and strong industry links, the campus is a hub for innovation, talent development, and real-world learning.
Benefits
- 35 days paid annual leave plus 8 bank holidays
- 3 well-being days per year
- Significant pension contribution
- Retail discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Cycle to work scheme
Role Responsibilities
To produce to the highest standards fresh food preparation from a range of menu options and hospitality food provision, ensuring that all budget, quality and operational targets are achieved and be a point of contact for other staff members.
Skills, Qualifications and Experience
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Possession of NVQ level 2 or relevant qualification
- Working knowledge of varied and large-scale catering operations
- Experience of fresh food preparation, menus from a range of different nationalities
- Track record of effectively leading a team
- Track record of achievement of targets
- Track record of menu costing and planning
- Achievement of operational targets
- Achievement of quality targets
- Accurate and timely reports
- Development of a motivated and flexible team
Safeguarding
LTE group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants will be required to undergo an appropriate DBS check via the Criminal Records Bureau and may be subject to additional online checks as part of our pre-screening process. Some roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and would require an Enhanced DBS check.
Equal Opportunities Statement
At The Manchester College, we are committed to providing an environment free from discrimination, bullying, harassment, or victimisation, where all members of our community are treated with respect and dignity. The Manchester College is committed to working in an inclusive way with all the communities where we are geographically located and to developing a workforce and student community that reflects Greater Manchester's and the UK's rich diversity and vibrancy.
The closing date for this job advert is 03/07/2025. However, sometimes the job advert may close early if we receive a good response.
Chef employer: The Manchester College
Contact Detail:
The Manchester College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific catering needs of UCEN Manchester. Research their menu offerings and understand the dietary preferences of students and staff to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in high-volume catering environments. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed large-scale food preparation and maintained quality standards under pressure.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing past experiences where you effectively led a team in a kitchen setting. Emphasise your ability to motivate and develop team members, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your understanding of food hygiene standards and regulations. Being knowledgeable about these practices will not only show your professionalism but also your commitment to safety in the kitchen.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in high-volume catering and fresh food preparation. Include specific examples of your achievements, such as menu planning and team leadership.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cooking and your understanding of food hygiene standards. Mention why you want to work at UCEN Manchester and how you can contribute to their catering team.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your NVQ level 2 or any other relevant qualifications in your application. This will demonstrate your professional background and commitment to the culinary field.
Showcase Teamwork Skills: Emphasise your ability to work in a team setting. Provide examples of how you've effectively led a team in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position at UCEN Manchester.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Manchester College
✨Showcase Your Culinary Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with fresh food preparation and high-volume catering. Bring examples of menus you've created or worked on, and be ready to explain how you ensure quality and hygiene standards in your cooking.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership
Highlight your experience in leading a team effectively. Share specific examples of how you've motivated your team, achieved targets, and handled challenges in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
✨Understand the Role's Requirements
Familiarise yourself with the job description and responsibilities. Be ready to discuss how your qualifications, such as NVQ level 2, align with the expectations of the role and how you can contribute to the catering team at UCEN Manchester.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Food
Express your enthusiasm for creating nutritious meals and your commitment to delivering high-quality food. Discuss any personal philosophies about food and nutrition that resonate with the values of the institution.
