At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook meals for up to 45 residents, ensuring quality and safety.
- Company: Join Manchester City Council, a vibrant and diverse local authority.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holiday allowance, pension scheme, and discounts on various services.
- Other info: Flexible hours, community-focused role, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by feeding those in need while working with a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Passion for cooking; food prep qualifications are a plus but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 25178 - 30774 £ per year.
Working Hours: 28 hours per week, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday - 8am-3.30pm.
Contract Type: Permanent, Full Time
Closing Date: 18 September 2026
Interview Method: Face to Face
Legal Right to Work: In accordance with Home Office guidance, successful candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK before commencement of employment.
This role is subject to:
- Proof of Manchester Residency – Roles at Grade 1 to 3, traineeships, or apprenticeships will initially only be advertised to Manchester residents and internal candidates.
- DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance - this post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (amended in 2013).
You will be required to prepare and cook a meal each day for up to 45 residents and to cook meals in preparation if the other cook is not in at weekends. The role includes budget purchasing the food from local vendors within the community within the council's budget to produce these meals. You will be based in our on-site kitchen and will be helping to feed those most in need in society and you will get to join an excellent and highly motivated team. You will be required to complete all paperwork in line with food regulations, Health and Safety and COSHH.
The Longford Centre team are a highly motivated and supportive team that operate under the neighbourhood directorate within the council.
About the Candidate:
The candidate must be a dynamic individual who can adapt to changing situations as and when they happen. While you will not be directly supporting residents, the successful candidate must be compassionate and empathic to the client group who are facing homelessness. A qualification in food preparation and cooking or/and food hygiene would be desirable but not essential as a comprehensive training package will be provided in place to support your role as Cook. A passion and love of cooking work ethic is also desirable.
About Us:
We’re the local council for one of the UK’s most vibrant and diverse cities. Working for Manchester isn’t just a job – it’s an opportunity to contribute to a city that leads change and transforms lives. Whether it’s strengthening communities or driving innovation in public services, you’ll play a vital role in creating opportunities and shaping a brighter future for everyone.
Benefits we offer:
- Generous holiday allowance - Enjoy up to 26 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays. Increasing to 31 days after five years of local government service.
- A buzzing pension - You’ll be enrolled in the UK’s largest local government pension scheme, with plenty of options to top up your benefits.
- Enhanced parental and carers leave - Take advantage of our enhanced family leave options.
- Brilliant perks - Access a range of discounts, from saving on the weekly shop to holidays and days out.
- Learn and grow - We are dedicated to nurturing talent and providing you with the tools to thrive.
- A Good Employment Charter member - We are committed to offering secure, flexible work and embedding fairness into everything we do.
- Up to 3 days volunteering leave - Give back to the community with three days pro-rata of paid volunteering leave.
Creating an Inclusive Team at Manchester City Council:
At Manchester City Council, we’re dedicated to creating a workplace that truly reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities, Disabled people and young people.
Support During the Process:
Interview Adjustments: Let us know if you need any adjustments to demonstrate your suitability during the interview.
Guaranteed Assessment Scheme: We guarantee assessments for applicants who meet the recruiting panel's minimum shortlisting requirements for the role and identify with at least one of the criteria below:
- Members of the Armed Forces members or veterans
- Current or former care leavers
- Have a disability or long-term condition
When You Join Us:
We’re a Disability Confident Employer, offering a workplace adjustment hub which provides specialist support, advice and guidance to ensure you have the adjustments needed to thrive at work.
What we will need from you if you’re successful:
- Proof of Right to Work: You’ll need to provide documentary evidence of your right to work in the UK.
- References: We’ll require references from your current and previous employer(s).
- Proof of Qualifications: Evidence of qualifications relevant to the role will be required.
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check: A criminal record check may be necessary, depending on the role.
These checks are an important part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our workforce and the community we serve.
Cook in Manchester employer: Manchester City Council
At Crosslee Community Primary School, part of the CLIC Co-operative Trust, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our collaborative culture, which encourages professional development and embraces diversity. Located in Greater Manchester, we offer a flexible working schedule that aligns with school hours, allowing for a balanced work-life experience while making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Manchester
✨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 City Council. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Manchester City Council
Don't be shy about reaching out to Manchester City 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 Cook in Manchester
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 City 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 Manchester City 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!
