At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our culinary team to prepare and present high-quality meals for our residents.
- Company: Gradwell Park is dedicated to enriching lives through exceptional food and service.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, birthday leave, and a pension scheme, plus more perks!
- Why this job: Be part of a creative kitchen environment that values quality and community impact.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef is essential; knowledge of senior dietary needs is a plus.
- Other info: Work 30 hours a week with shifts including evenings and weekends.
We are pleased to be looking for a Chef to join our team here at Gradwell Park. This role is 30 hours per week - from 8am to 4pm on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.
As a Chef, you will play a key role in assisting our Head Chef in all aspects of kitchen management, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation. You will collaborate closely with the culinary team to ensure the highest standards of food quality and service delivery. Creativity, attention to detail, and a passion for enriching the lives of our residents through food are essential for this role.
Responsibilities:- Assist in the preparation and cooking of high-quality meals following established recipes and portion controls.
- Supervise the kitchen and team of Head Chef days off and coordinate daily activities, ensuring adherence to food safety and sanitation standards.
- Contribute to menu planning and development, taking into account dietary needs and preferences of residents.
- Maintain inventory levels and control food costs.
- Uphold a positive and professional approach with residents, staff, and visitors.
- Proven experience as a Chef or similar role in a kitchen environment.
- Knowledge of nutrition and dietary requirements for seniors is advantageous.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Shifts will include some evenings and weekends.
In return, we offer a number of benefits including Medicash, pension scheme, 25 days annual leave, birthday leave, rewards schemes, volunteering days, plus much more!
Chef employer: Retirement Villages Group
Contact Detail:
Retirement Villages Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific dietary needs of seniors. Understanding nutrition and how to cater to various dietary restrictions will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your creativity in the kitchen by preparing a unique dish that reflects your culinary style. Bring this dish to the interview to demonstrate your skills and passion for food.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of Gradwell Park. They can provide insights into the kitchen culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing kitchen teams, especially during the Head Chef's absence. Highlight any leadership roles you've had and how you ensured smooth operations.
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 specific responsibilities and requirements for the Chef position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in kitchen management, food preparation, and presentation.
Showcase Your Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your proven experience as a Chef or in a similar role. Include specific examples of your culinary skills, creativity in menu planning, and any experience with dietary needs, especially for seniors.
Highlight Soft Skills: Mention your excellent communication and organisational skills in your application. Provide examples of how you have successfully collaborated with a team or supervised staff, particularly during busy periods.
Personal Touch: Convey your passion for enriching the lives of residents through food in your cover letter. Share a personal story or motivation that reflects your commitment to high-quality service and food safety standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at Retirement Villages Group
✨Showcase Your Culinary Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in the kitchen. Bring examples of dishes you've created or worked on, and if possible, share any photos or a portfolio that highlights your culinary skills.
✨Understand Dietary Needs
Since the role involves catering to seniors, brush up on nutrition and dietary requirements for older adults. Be ready to discuss how you can adapt meals to meet these needs and show your passion for enhancing their dining experience.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork
Collaboration is key in a kitchen environment. Prepare to talk about your experience working in teams, how you handle conflicts, and your approach to supervising others when the Head Chef is off duty.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about menu planning processes, how they incorporate resident feedback, or what the team culture is like. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and commitment.