At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and prepare delicious meals for our residents, ensuring their dietary needs are met.
- Company: Join Macklin Care Homes, a family-first organisation dedicated to exceptional care.
- Benefits: Enjoy sociable hours, competitive pay, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Be part of an award-winning team that values compassion and dedication.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of others while doing what you love.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality and a passion for cooking are essential.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 13 £ per hour.
Location: Arlington Private Nursing Home, 9 North Parade
Can you make a real difference in the lives of others? Are you a Chef looking for a rewarding role with sociable hours and no late nights? Arlington Care Home in Belfast is currently seeking an experienced Assistant Cook to join our dedicated team on a Full-time basis.
Hours: 38.5 hours per week
Shifts: 4 shifts per week (8:00 am – 6:00 pm)
At Macklin Care Homes, we believe in valuing our team and providing a supportive, friendly work environment with real opportunities for career development. As part of our award-winning team, your passion and dedication will be genuinely appreciated. Our residents are the heart of our homes. Inspired by their stories and experiences, we are proud to make a meaningful difference in their lives every day. If you are a compassionate Chef who “cares with heart” and is looking for a rewarding career, we’d love to hear from you.
About The Role
- Plan, prepare, and cook meals for residents, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
- Cater to individual dietary requirements, including allergens and health-related restrictions.
- Create a variety of well-balanced, appealing, and nutritious meals.
- Develop weekly or monthly menus in collaboration with residents and management, ensuring variety and nutritional value.
- Oversee daily operations within the kitchen, ensuring smooth workflow and timely meal service.
- Maintain stock control, including ordering, receiving, and proper storage of food supplies.
- Minimise food waste and manage budgets effectively.
- Adhere to food safety standards, including proper food handling, preparation, and storage.
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in all areas of the kitchen, including equipment and utensils.
- Engage with residents to gather feedback and understand their preferences.
- Foster a welcoming and inclusive dining experience for residents.
Ideal Candidate
- Passion for cooking and providing excellent dining experiences.
- Ability to manage time and prioritise tasks effectively in a fast-paced setting.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of food quality and safety.
Company Benefits
- Collaborating with an award-winning team with family values.
- Access to a wide variety of training opportunities to support professional growth.
- Career development opportunities.
- Flexibility of shifts.
- Access to the Employee Assistance Programme for mental health and well-being support.
- Discounted rates at Malone Hotel, Belfast.
- Health and well-being initiatives, including team-building initiatives.
- Free car parking and uniform.
- Incentives for employee referrals.
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. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the communities we serve. Macklin Care Homes is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Required Criteria
- Experience in a similar role within a hospitality environment.
- Food Hygiene and COSHH training.
- Be in good general medical health.
- Right to work and live in the UK.
- Good written and verbal English skills.
Desired Criteria
Closing Date Monday 31st August, 2026
Contract Type: fulltime
Salary: £13.30 Hourly
Sponsorship for this role is not offered. Applications requiring sponsorship will not be considered.
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.
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. 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. Join us, and be part of a team that truly makes a difference.
Head Cook 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 Head Cook
✨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 Head Cook
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!
