At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team to prepare fresh, nutritious meals for residents.
- Company: Whiteabbey Care Home, a supportive and caring environment.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, generous holidays, training, and career growth.
- Other info: Part-time role with flexible hours and free onsite parking.
- Why this job: Make a difference in residents' lives through quality cooking.
- Qualifications: 1 year of kitchen experience required; HACCP knowledge is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 16 £ per hour.
Location: Whiteabbey Care Home, 104 Doagh Road, Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland, County Antrim, BT37 9QP
Date Posted: 13th February 2026 | Closing Date: 1st March 2026
Job Type: Part-time | Salary: £12.88 per hour
About the role
Your experience as a competent 2nd Chef/Cook within the kitchen team, covering for the Cook Manager in the absence of the main Cook, will allow you to step up and support the running of the catering operation within the Home. You will prepare high‑quality home‑cooked, fresh, nutritional meals and cater for any day‑to‑day dietary and cultural needs.
Responsibilities
- Lead, motivate and direct a team of kitchen colleagues to deliver a first‑class catering service to residents.
- Prepare menus in consultation with the Cook Manager, Home Manager, residents, families, catering committees, ensuring nutritional needs and choices are met.
- Prepare beverages and snacks throughout the day, tailored to residents’ needs.
- Plan and deliver set menus in the absence of the Cook Manager.
- Take responsibility for stock taking, stock rotation and storage of stock, including checking and receiving deliveries.
- Monitor and replenish kitchen and food stocks in conjunction with the Home Manager, and maintain records in line with company procedures.
- Present dining areas in a professional manner.
- Assist in supervising all other kitchen staff.
- Ensure high standards of hygiene, cleanliness and food preparation are maintained to meet environmental food safety standards.
Required Criteria
- 1 year experience working in a kitchen environment.
Desired Criteria
- Knowledge of HACCP.
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Generous holiday entitlement
- Access to excellent training
- Career development opportunities
- Free onsite parking
- Free uniform
- NEST workplace pension contributions
Cook - Experience needed. 3 days per wk. 25.5 hrs in Newtownabbey employer: Hill Care
At Whiteabbey Care Home, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the contributions of our kitchen team. With a focus on providing high-quality, nutritious meals for our residents, we foster a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and development. Our part-time Cook role offers competitive pay, generous holiday entitlement, and access to excellent training, all within a welcoming environment that prioritises employee well-being and satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook - Experience needed. 3 days per wk. 25.5 hrs in Newtownabbey
✨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 Hill Care. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hill Care
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hill Care 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 Cook - Experience needed. 3 days per wk. 25.5 hrs in Newtownabbey
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 Hill Care 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 Hill Care
✨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!
