At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve delicious meals in a vibrant college kitchen.
- Company: Join a friendly college catering team in Huddersfield.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, term-time hours, training opportunities, and discounts.
- Why this job: Make a difference by providing nutritious meals to students and staff.
- Qualifications: Experience in a fast-paced kitchen and a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with great work-life balance.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 14 £ per hour.
Location: Huddersfield
Hours: 37 hours per week
Working Pattern: Term time only - 38 weeks per year
Contract: Permanent
Hourly Rate: £12.50 - £13.50 per hour (approx. £24,850 FTE, pro rata)
We are looking for an experienced Cook / Senior Catering Assistant to join a busy and welcoming college catering team in Huddersfield. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled cook or catering professional who enjoys working in a fast-paced kitchen environment while supporting young people and staff. Working closely with the Catering Supervisor, you will take a lead role in the kitchen, helping to deliver a high-quality, varied, and nutritious food offering that meets a wide range of dietary requirements and provides excellent value for money.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare, cook, present, and serve hot and cold food to a high standard
- Support menu delivery, ensuring sufficient quantity, variety, and quality
- Accept deliveries, place orders, and manage stock via central catering stores
- Maintain clean, safe, and hygienic kitchen and refectory areas
- Ensure compliance with food hygiene, Health & Safety, and college policies
- Operate tills and handle payments in line with procedures
- Provide excellent customer service to students, staff, and visitors
- Work collaboratively as part of a catering team and support junior staff
Skills & Experience Required
- Proven experience as a Cook, Senior Catering Assistant, or Kitchen Assistant
- Experience working in a fast-paced kitchen and front-of-house catering role
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (essential)
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks
- Confident communication skills and a friendly, professional approach
- Ability to engage positively with young people and colleagues
Desirable
- Experience in education, school, or college catering
- Experience supporting or leading a small catering team
- Enhanced DBS check (required for working in an educational environment)
What’s on Offer
- Competitive hourly pay (£12.50 - £13.50 per hour)
- Term-time only working, supporting work-life balance
- Ongoing training, mentoring, and development opportunities
- Financial support for qualifications and skills development
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Retail and leisure discounts
- Reduced public transport travel costs
- Access to college pension scheme
Safeguarding Commitment
This role involves working in an educational environment. The successful candidate must be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
If you’re an experienced Cook or Catering Assistant looking for a stable, term-time role in Huddersfield with excellent benefits and development opportunities, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and be part of a team that values kindness, teamwork, and excellence.
Cook in Huddersfield employer: Manpower Group (UK)
Contact Detail:
Manpower Group (UK) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Huddersfield
✨Tip Number 1
Get your game face on! When you walk into that interview, show them your passion for cooking and catering. Share stories about your experiences in fast-paced kitchens and how you've tackled challenges. We want to see your personality shine!
✨Tip Number 2
Do your homework! Research the college and its catering team. Knowing their values and what they serve can help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested. We love candidates who take the time to understand us!
✨Tip Number 3
Bring your A-game with questions! Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the role or the team dynamics. This shows you're engaged and ready to be part of our kitchen family. Plus, it gives you a chance to see if we're the right fit for you too!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. We love to see candidates who are proactive and enthusiastic about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Cook in Huddersfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your previous experience as a Cook or in a catering role. We want to see how you've thrived in fast-paced kitchens and what skills you bring to the table!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the job. Mention your food hygiene certification and any relevant experience in educational settings.
Be Personable: We love a friendly approach! Use your application to showcase your communication skills and how you engage positively with young people and colleagues. A warm tone can make a big difference!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manpower Group (UK)
✨Know Your Menu
Before the interview, familiarise yourself with the types of dishes typically served in a college catering environment. Be ready to discuss how you would prepare and present these meals, especially considering dietary requirements.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in fast-paced kitchens. Talk about how you've managed stock, handled deliveries, or led a team, as these are key responsibilities for the role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Since this role involves working closely with others, be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with colleagues. Share examples of how you've supported junior staff or worked as part of a team to deliver excellent service.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Food Safety
Make sure to mention your Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate and any other relevant training. Discuss how you ensure compliance with food hygiene and health & safety standards in your previous roles, as this is crucial in a college setting.