Cook

Join to apply for the Cook role at Healthcare Ireland Group

Are you an experienced Cook with a passion for food?

Exciting Career Opportunities at Holmes Court

Holmes Court is a newly built residential home in Ballymena, providing specialist care for adults aged 18 and over with complex needs, including autism, learning disabilities, and challenging behaviours. Conveniently located within walking distance of local shops and parks, and easily accessible by bus and train, Holmes Court is next door to Slemish Nursing Home. With a brand‑new team recently recruited, Holmes Court offers exciting opportunities for passionate and dedicated individuals to join us from the ground up and make a real difference. If you’re eager to be part of a fresh, dynamic team delivering person‑centred care in a supportive environment, we’d love to hear from you.

The Role

The food our residents eat plays a key part in the care we offer and as a result, the role of Cook is essential in our mission to provide excellent care. The Cook works closely with the Chef, supporting with menu planning, meal preparation, kitchen management and ensuring compliance with the necessary regulatory standards. The Cook has a meaningful impact on the health and wellbeing of our residents through the provision of high‑quality, person‑centred dining experiences. This role is about a lot more than preparing meals: it is essential in ensuring the dietary needs of our residents are met in addition to managing a safe and positive working environment for the team.

Main Responsibilities

• Support the kitchen team along with the Chef, providing the necessary training and support, encouraging development, motivation and best practice.
• Effective and efficient planning, preparation, and delivery of all aspects of food preparation and cooking.
• Ensuring operational standards comply with all regulations.
• Assist with monitoring the home’s catering budget.
• Assist with developing and creating varied and interesting menus.
• Ensure that stock ordering and rotation is organised in an efficient and cost‑effective manner.
• Undertake any other duties that may be reasonably required as designated by the Home Manager.

The Benefits

• Paid annual leave.
• The chance to be part of a growing healthcare company.
• 4 weekly pay.
• Continuous professional development and training.
• Values‑led culture.
• Overtime available at an enhanced rate.
• Opportunities for progression.
• Pension plan (if applicable).
• Attractive hourly rate.
• Access NI fee paid for.
• Uniforms and PPE provided.
• Monthly incentives and recognition awards.
• Free parking.

Required Criteria

• Right to work in the UK.
• Minimum 2 years experience as Cook in a food preparation/kitchen environment or a similar role.
• Hold a basic Food Safety certificate.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Basic understanding of the dietary needs, nutritional and cultural requirements of elderly people.
• The ability to work in a fast‑paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Have basic knowledge of HACCP, COSHH and Health and Safety.

Desired Criteria

• Experience in a care home or healthcare environment is desirable but not essential.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Management and Manufacturing

Industries

Nursing Homes and Residential Care Facilities

Salary

£12.80 per hour

Healthcare Ireland are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.

We do not offer sponsorship for this role.