At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare delicious meals and support the kitchen team at Carnegie Primary School.
- Company: Join Fife Council, a supportive employer with a focus on community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous holidays, and local discounts.
- Other info: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and a chance to grow your career.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives by providing nutritious meals.
- Qualifications: Catering experience or relevant qualifications like SVQ or City & Guilds.
The predicted salary is between 13.64 - 13.64 £ per hour.
Proposed Interview Date: Week Commencing 5 October 2026
Closing Date: Tuesday 29 September 2026
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: FCLW £25,604.23 (Pro-Rata)
Working Pattern: 20 hours per week, 38 weeks per year
Location: Carnegie Primary School, Dunfermline
As part of your application, you must provide us with a Supporting Statement which outlines how your skills and experience make you a good candidate for this vacancy. Without a Supporting Statement, your application will not be progressed.
Job Details:
- Catering experience or a qualification such as an SVQ, City & Guilds, or equivalent is required.
- Permanent vacancy for an Assistant Cook in Dunfermline at Carnegie Primary School.
- Working 20 hours per week Monday to Friday on a 38 week contract.
- Duties include preparation of food and beverages, organisation of the service of food, transporting and serving meals, general kitchen and dining room duties, and cleaning of the kitchen and equipment.
- Completing required paperwork including electronic returns.
You will earn a competitive salary of £25,604.23 pro-rata and have access to a range of benefits, including:
- £13.64 per hour, plus extra payments for shift work, including weekends.
- Membership of Fife Pension Fund which is part of the Scottish Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS Scotland).
- Generous holiday allowance.
- Access to training opportunities and qualifications for the job.
- Local and national discounts including cinemas, supermarkets, restaurants and retail.
This work is about ensuring pupils and staff are provided with meals throughout the school day during term time - covering breakfast, morning break and lunch.
The Person:
- Catering experience or a qualification such as an SVQ, City & Guilds or equivalent is required.
- You will be required to attend an induction training day before starting in post.
- Before confirming your appointment, you will be required to obtain Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme membership through Disclosure Scotland.
- We particularly encourage applications from men, who are currently underrepresented within this type of work.
Further Information:
- When preparing your supporting statement, review the role profile and think about how you meet the essential criteria.
- Employees have access to a benefits package that offers discounts on a wide range of products and services.
- Job information can be made available in alternative formats, to make a request please e-mail transactions.recruitment@fife.gov.uk.
Assistant Cook in Dunfermline employer: Fife Council
Fife Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a flexible 36-hour working week, generous leave entitlements, and opportunities for hybrid working, employees can achieve a healthy work-life balance while contributing to meaningful projects within the community. The council is committed to continuous improvement and provides ample career development opportunities, making it an ideal place for MRICS qualified Chartered Surveyors to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Cook in Dunfermline
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Fife Council. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Fife Council
Don't be shy about reaching out to Fife Council directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Cook in Dunfermline
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Fife Council and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fife Council
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
