At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in preparing nutritious meals and maintain kitchen hygiene standards.
- Company: Join Macklin Care Homes, a family-first care provider with over 30 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible shifts, career development, and health initiatives.
- Other info: Be part of an award-winning team that values your contribution.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while gaining valuable kitchen experience.
- Qualifications: Kitchen experience preferred; must be compassionate and able to communicate with the elderly.
Location: Ratheane Private Nursing Home, 58 Mountsandel Road
Can you make a real difference in the lives of others? We are looking to hire exceptional talent to work in care; in return, we will bring out the best in you. At Macklin Care Homes, you will work as part of an award-winning team valued for your contribution. There are opportunities for career development and a friendly and rewarding working environment. If you are a compassionate person who cares with heart, we would love to hear from you.
Ratheane Care Home (Coleraine) is currently seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Kitchen Assistant to join our kitchen team on a Relief basis. The successful candidate will assist in preparing nutritious meals for residents while gaining valuable experience in food preparation, kitchen operations, and hygiene standards.
About The Role
- Assisting in the preparation of meals as directed by the chef or kitchen supervisor.
- Preparing basic dishes such as salads, sandwiches, and soups.
- Ensuring meals are portioned appropriately and according to dietary requirements (e.g., low-sodium, diabetic-friendly).
- Helping to serve meals to residents or in dining areas.
- Maintaining high standards of hygiene and cleanliness in the kitchen.
- Following food safety guidelines, including proper food storage and labelling.
- Complying with care home policies and health regulations.
- Reporting any issues related to equipment, cleanliness, or safety.
Ideal Candidate
- Kitchen experience in a similar position or environment.
- Ability to communicate with the elderly.
- Ability to work set hours and be flexible to meet the needs of the organisation.
- Be in good General Health (medically fit).
Company Benefits
- Collaborating with an award-winning team with family values.
- A comprehensive paid induction programme.
- A wide variety of training is provided.
- Career development opportunities.
- Flexibility of shifts.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Discounted rates at Malone Hotel, Belfast.
- Health and well-being initiatives, including team-building initiatives.
- Free car parking and uniform.
- Incentives for employee referrals.
Please note we will only accept up-to-date CVs - without this, an interview cannot be given. We do not offer sponsorship for this role - if you require sponsorship, your application will be automatically declined. Please consider this carefully before applying. Interviews may take place before the job advertisement closes, as and when suitable applications are received. If a suitable candidate is appointed, the role may close early. Therefore, please submit your application promptly without hesitation.
Additionally, we reserve the right to modify the criteria at the shortlisting stage. Successful candidates must be willing to register with NISCC. An Enhanced Access NI Check will be required for this post. If successful, please be aware that we do have a policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders. As per the Access NI Code of Practice, Macklin Care Homes also has a policy on the secure handling, use, storage, and retention of disclosure information. Copies of these documents, along with the Access NI Code of Practice, are available upon request by contacting the HR Department.
It is Macklin Care Homes' Policy that any existence of a criminal conviction will not necessarily lead to the withdrawal of a job offer, but the failure to disclose all criminal convictions fully and accurately will lead to the withdrawal of a job offer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the communities we serve. Macklin Care Homes is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Skills Needed
About The Company
Macklin Care Homes – Caring with Heart for Over 30 Years. For over 30 years, Macklin Care Homes have been dedicated to providing exceptional care. We bring decades of experience, knowledge, and expertise to every individual we support. But we are not just another care home—we are family-first. Everyone who comes through our doors—residents, staff, relatives, and suppliers—is treated as part of one big caring community.
We Proudly Operate Six Care Homes Across Northern Ireland: Arlington, Our Lady's, and Parkmanor Oaks – Belfast; Milesian Manor – Magherafelt; Ratheane – Coleraine; Leabank – Ballycastle. Our vision is to make a genuine, positive impact on the lives of people in our local communities. We strive to be the trusted care provider that families choose with confidence. Through dedication, passion, and commitment, we care with heart—creating an environment where people feel safe, loved, and respected. At Macklin Care Homes, we aim to be the preferred choice in the community—where families know their loved ones are in the best hands.
Company Culture
Make a Real Difference – Join Macklin Care Homes. Do you want to make a genuine difference in the lives of others? At Macklin Care Homes, we are always looking for passionate, caring individuals to join our team—and in return, we will help bring out the very best in you. As part of our award-winning team, you will be valued for your contribution and supported with opportunities for career development, all within a friendly and rewarding working environment. Our residents are at the heart of everything we do. We are inspired by their stories, their experiences, and the knowledge that our care truly makes a difference in their lives. Guided by a strong set of core values, we cultivate a culture of respect, dedication, and compassion. These values ensure that residents and their families remain at the centre of all our efforts. We are proud of the positive, caring culture we live by every day. If you are compassionate, committed, and care with heart, we would love to hear from you.
For all recruitment-related enquiries, please contact our Recruitment Team at: recruitment@macklingroup.com
Required Criteria
- Good command of spoken and written English.
- Right to work and live in the UK.
- High attention to detail.
- Understanding of food hygiene and safety standards.
Desired Criteria
Closing Date Monday 31st August, 2026
Contract Type fulltime
Salary £12.80 Hourly
Relief Kitchen Assistant - Ratheane in Coleraine employer: Macklin Care Homes | Care Home Group in Northern Ireland
Macklin Care Homes is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being of both residents and staff. With a focus on career growth, employees benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities, ensuring they can advance in their roles while making a meaningful impact in the lives of those they care for. Located in Belfast, our care home provides a welcoming environment where teamwork and compassion are at the heart of everything we do.
Contact Details:
Macklin Care Homes | Care Home Group in Northern Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief Kitchen Assistant - Ratheane in Coleraine
✨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 Macklin Care Homes | Care Home Group in Northern Ireland. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Macklin Care Homes | Care Home Group in Northern Ireland
Don't be shy about reaching out to Macklin Care Homes | Care Home Group in Northern Ireland 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 Relief Kitchen Assistant - Ratheane in Coleraine
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 Macklin Care Homes | Care Home Group in Northern Ireland 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 Macklin Care Homes | Care Home Group in Northern Ireland
✨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!
