At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare nutritious meals and support menu planning for our residents.
- Company: Leading provider of housing and support services in Northern Ireland.
- Benefits: Generous leave, birthday leave, pension contributions, and a great work-life balance.
- Other info: Join a community-focused team with plenty of learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through the power of food.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in Catering & Hospitality and 2 years' kitchen experience.
The predicted salary is between 13.45 - 13.45 £ per hour.
East Belfast – Mount Merrion & Bloomfield area. Various contracts available from 12 – 37 hours. £13.45 per hour.
A bit about us: We are one of NI’s leading providers of high-quality housing and support housing services and our aim is to make a real difference to the lives of the people living in our homes.
What you’ll be doing:
- Preparing nutritious, homely meals tailored to the needs of our residents
- Supporting menu planning and contributing ideas for varied, enjoyable dishes
- Completing essential compliance and food safety checks
A bit about you:
- NVQ Level 2 in Catering & Hospitality or City & Guilds equivalent
- At least 2 years’ experience working in a kitchen or catering environment
It would be great if you also have:
- Knowledge of older people’s dietary needs or menu planning
You must also be able to communicate verbally in English with our residents.
Why you’ll love working with us: We believe in looking after the people who look after others. That’s why we offer a fantastic rewards package, including:
- Generous annual leave entitlements
- Birthday Leave and a Life Event Day for those important personal moments
- Pension contributions
- An award‑winning work‑life balance package
- Plenty of learning and development opportunities
- National Living Wage rate of £13.45 per hour
This is more than just a job—it’s a chance to be part of a community, to bring comfort through food, and to help people live well every day.
Cook employer: NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association
The NIFHA is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that values employee development and well-being. Located in the picturesque town of Holywood, employees benefit from a permanent contract, a contributory pension scheme, and a health cash plan, ensuring a rewarding and secure work environment. With opportunities for growth and a commitment to making a positive impact in the community, joining NIFHA means being part of a dedicated team focused on meaningful contributions.
Contact Details:
NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 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 NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association
Don't be shy about reaching out to NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association 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
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 NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association 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 NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association
✨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!
