At a Glance
- Tasks: Reheat meals and prepare sandwiches for delivery to vulnerable people.
- Company: Join North Somerset Council's Community Meals Service, dedicated to supporting the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, competitive pay, and wellbeing support like Cycle to Work schemes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in maths and English, plus food safety hygiene certification required.
- Other info: Must have a valid driving license and own transport; DBS check needed.
About Us
North Somerset Council’s Community Meals Service is looking for casual Cooks/Kitchen Assistants to cover for cooks during leave periods. The role involves reheating pre-prepared meals and making sandwiches for delivery 7 days a week to vulnerable people. There are two kitchens: one in Weston (South North Somerset) and one in Clevedon (North North Somerset).
The Role
Applicants should have kitchen experience, particularly with cooking and freezer temperatures. Training on kitchen equipment and Environmental Health regulations will be provided. Responsibilities include making sandwiches, monitoring food temperatures, stock control, and preparing meals for delivery starting at 11.30 am.
You will be supported by a Team Manager and the Community Meals Business Support Team. Kitchens operate 7 days a week, except Christmas and New Year’s Day. Working hours are typically between 8 am and 2 pm on weekdays and 9 am to 12 pm on weekends.
Key Responsibilities:
- Cooking pre-prepared food
- Preparing ingredients for sandwiches and salads
- Monitoring food storage temperatures
- Maintaining a clean and sanitized kitchen environment
- Properly storing food items
- Monitoring stock levels and ordering supplies
This position is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and requires an enhanced DBS check. A valid driving license and own transport are essential. The current base is Castlewood offices in Worle, with future relocation planned.
About You
- NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in maths and English
- Knowledge of kitchen environment and safety regulations
- Experience with catering machinery and food safety hygiene certificates
- Polite and courteous demeanor
Essential Criteria:
- NVQ Level 2 in maths and English
- Food Safety Hygiene Level 2
Desirable Criteria:
- Additional skills or experience relevant to catering (details not specified)
What We Offer
We provide a supportive, inclusive environment with competitive salary, flexible working, pension, professional development, staff groups, additional leave options, wellbeing support, and schemes like Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online by the deadline, detailing how they meet the essential criteria. For more information, contact Christine Ratcliffe at Christine.Ratcliffe@n-somerset.gov.uk or 07386 963367.
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Casual Cook employer: North Somerset Council
Contact Detail:
North Somerset Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Casual Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific kitchen equipment and food safety regulations mentioned in the job description. This will not only help you during the interview but also show that you're proactive and serious about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in a similar kitchen environment, especially if you've worked with pre-prepared meals or have knowledge of food storage temperatures. This can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Make sure to demonstrate your ability to work as part of a team. Since you'll be supported by a Team Manager and other staff, showing that you can collaborate effectively will be key in your discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare some questions about the role and the Community Meals Service. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand how you can contribute to their mission of supporting vulnerable people.
We think you need these skills to ace Casual Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements. Highlight your relevant kitchen experience, especially with cooking and food safety regulations.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your experience in a kitchen environment. Include any relevant qualifications like NVQ Level 2 in maths and English, as well as your Food Safety Hygiene Level 2 certification.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description. Mention your experience with catering machinery and your ability to maintain a clean kitchen environment.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, double-check your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is crucial in a kitchen setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at North Somerset Council
✨Know Your Kitchen Safety Regulations
Familiarise yourself with kitchen safety regulations and food hygiene standards. Being able to discuss these during the interview will show your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to talk about your previous kitchen experience, especially any roles involving cooking or food preparation. Specific examples of how you've handled food storage and temperature monitoring can set you apart.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working alongside a Team Manager and other staff, emphasise your ability to work well in a team. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in past roles to achieve common goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the training provided for kitchen equipment or how the team supports each other during busy periods. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.