At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare, cook, and serve delicious meals in a vibrant catering environment.
- Company: Join Middlesbrough College, a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible hours, and free gym membership.
- Other info: Great career progression opportunities and a fun team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a difference by creating high-quality meals for students and staff.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in Food Preparation and basic food hygiene certification required.
The predicted salary is between 14.68 - 14.68 £ per hour.
Step into a rewarding role at Middlesbrough College as a Chef / Cook, where you will contribute to delivering high‑quality meals in a busy and supportive catering environment. Reporting to the Catering Manager, you will be responsible for preparing, cooking, presenting and serving a wide variety of dishes, ensuring all meals meet required standards, follow set recipes, and fully comply with food safety, allergen legislation and Food4Health guidelines.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure the preparation, cooking, delivery, presentation and service of all meals at the required times and follow recipes and cooking methods in line with all guidelines, Allergen Legislation, and Food4Health standards as detailed by tariffs and menus.
- Maintain correct quantities and portion specifications at all times and carry out pre‑service instruction with staff, ensuring appropriate knowledge of all dishes/products for sale.
- Ensure that all tasks meet statutory responsibility to protect food from contamination by biological, physical or chemical means, and complete all required paperwork linked to this process daily.
- Actively promote business aims and objectives by assisting the Supervisor and Management with menu planning, ordering, receiving, checking and storage of items.
- Communicate effectively and appropriately with all staff, learners and external customers throughout the college, demonstrating a strong team ethic to all members of the team.
Qualifications
- NVQ Level 2 in Food Preparation.
- Basic Certificate in Food Hygiene.
- Grade C or above in Maths and English (or equivalent) or willingness to work towards it.
- Commitment to undertake any mandatory training relevant to the role.
Experience
- Current experience of working in a food preparation and service environment with responsibilities for food preparation and service.
- Experience of working within a large busy catering team.
Knowledge & Skills
- Relevant skills to prepare, cook and serve a wide variety of dishes to a high standard.
- Ability to organise time and tasks to meet business service requirements and to assist in training other team members with confidence when required.
- Strong team player with excellent communication skills.
- Positive and flexible approach to meet changing business needs.
Why Join Us?
- Substantial annual leave entitlement plus holiday purchase scheme.
- Health & Wellbeing: free gym membership, 24/7 counselling for you and your family.
- Family‑friendly policies: flexible hours and a supportive work environment.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): confidential support and financial advice.
- Professional development: extensive training, mentoring and career progression opportunities.
- Funded CPD opportunities, regular staff development training and paid volunteering days.
- Access to discounted hair and beauty treatments at on‑site salon.
- College benefit scheme – College Extras: Up to 15% cashback at top retailers & restaurants.
- Discounted gift cards for big brands.
- Home & tech upgrades via salary sacrifice.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Discounted on‑site car parking.
Safeguarding Our Students
Middlesbrough College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students. All staff are expected to share this commitment. If you’re successful, you’ll be required to complete thorough pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. All roles within the College carry safeguarding responsibilities, including promoting student welfare, reporting any concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), and modelling safe and appropriate conduct in line with College policies.
Right to Work
Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
Recruitment Process
Applications are shortlisted for interview as they are received, and so early application is encouraged. We reserve the right to commence the interview process and close the vacancy prior to this date.
Equality & Diversity
Middlesbrough College is an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is valued. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and make recruitment decisions based on skills and experience. As a Disability Confident employer, we actively support applicants with disabilities.
Contact
For further details, please contact Suzanne Clement, Catering Manager (S.Clement@mbro.ac.uk).
Chef/Cook (Hourly Paid) employer: Middlesbrough College Group
Join Middlesbrough College as a Chef/Cook and be part of a vibrant and supportive catering team dedicated to delivering high-quality meals. With substantial annual leave, flexible working hours, and extensive professional development opportunities, this role offers a rewarding work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and growth. Enjoy unique benefits such as free gym membership, discounted services, and a commitment to safeguarding and inclusivity, making it an excellent place for meaningful employment.
Contact Details:
Middlesbrough College Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef/Cook (Hourly Paid)
✨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 Middlesbrough College Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Middlesbrough College Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Middlesbrough College Group 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/Cook (Hourly Paid)
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 Middlesbrough College Group 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 Middlesbrough College Group
✨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!
