At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare delicious dishes and manage cooking processes in a vibrant kitchen.
- Company: Join OCS, a top-rated facilities management company with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible earnings, digital learning, and exclusive retail perks.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of an award-winning team that values your growth and creativity.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef and a Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
About The Company: OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering. Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values - Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.
Why Work for OCS?
- Award-Winning Employer: Ranked 36th on Glassdoor’s Best Companies to Work For 2025 — we value and motivate our people.
- Digital Learning: The OCS Academy offers digital courses and resources to help you build skills and grow your career.
- Retail Perks: With our Hapi app, you can gain access to exclusive discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources.
- Professional Growth: 600+ live learners across UK&I — Empowering colleagues with further development and qualifications!
- Flexible Pay: Access a portion of earned wages before payday with our Wagestream App! (Contract Specific)
About The Role: As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- Handle day-to-day food preparation and duties assigned by senior chefs to meet the sites standards and quality.
- Manage the cooking process at their specific station of several dishes, ensuring that the food is delivered in a timely manner.
- Follow and adhere to all safety, hygiene, and correct use of department utensils and equipment on site always.
- Notify Senior Chefs of inventory when running low by ensuring that the kitchen remains adequately stocked with fresh ingredients and catering necessities.
- Work with the rest of the culinary team to ensure high-quality food and service is maintained throughout the shift.
What are we looking for?
- Proven experience as a Chef is desired. Candidates should have experience working in a similar role within Contract Catering.
- Possess a Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality or equivalent.
- Understand and be able to demonstrate various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment and processes is essential.
- Candidates should also be able to multitask and work efficiently under pressure.
- The ability to work well in a team is crucial.
- Candidates should have excellent listening and communication skills.
- Understand the standard legal policies and procedures regarding receiving, preparation, storage and sanitation of food and the menu items fully, including the recipes, production and presentation methods.
The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:
- Must have the Right to Work in the UK.
- City & Guilds certification, BTEC, or NVQ at a basic level is required.
- Additionally, completing a food hygiene course at Level 2 would be desirable.
- Excellent customer service skills are essential.
- Good time-management and organisational abilities.
We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.
Chef in Runcorn employer: Manchester Arndale
At Manchester Arndale, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values every team member. Our part-time Evening Cleaner role offers flexible hours, allowing for a great work-life balance while contributing to a safe and welcoming environment for our customers. We are dedicated to employee growth, providing opportunities for training and development within a vibrant retail setting in the heart of Manchester.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Runcorn
✨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 Manchester Arndale. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Manchester Arndale
Don't be shy about reaching out to Manchester Arndale 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 Chef in Runcorn
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 Manchester Arndale 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 Manchester Arndale
✨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!
