At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist the Head Chef in creating nutritious meals and managing kitchen operations.
- Company: Join a caring team at the brand-new Berkshire Manor care home.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, enhanced pay, extra leave, and health benefits.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and recognition in a collaborative setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference through food while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or similar role, with a passion for quality food.
The predicted salary is between 18 - 18 £ per hour.
We are looking for a passionate and experienced Sous Chef to join our friendly team at our brand-new care home, Berkshire Manor, which is due to open in September 2026. Working alongside the Head Chef, you will help deliver high-quality, nutritious meals that support the health and wellbeing of our residents. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys making a real difference through food, ensuring every resident receives meals that are both enjoyable and tailored to their individual dietary needs.
We offer some excellent rewards and benefits including:
- 1 free meal per shift.
- Enhanced Bank Holiday pay.
- Uniform provided.
- Increased Annual Leave entitlement - team members who work with us for 3 years or more, get extra annual leave.
- Cycle to Work scheme – save money on commuting costs and improve your health.
- Milestone Birthdays - get EXTRA time off to celebrate that special birthday.
- Company sick pay which is over and above the statutory entitlement (subject to length of service).
- Refer a Friend Scheme for successful referrals - for all permanent roles within Oakland Care (T&Cs apply).
- Recognition and staff appreciation initiatives.
- Long service awards.
- Health Cash Plan (subject to T&Cs).
- Death in Service Benefit (subject to T&Cs).
- And much more.
Location: Berkshire Manor, Ringmead, Bracknell RG12 7TB
Hours: 40 hours per week
Pay: £18.00 per hour
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Shift: Days (5 days across 7, includes some weekends)
Key Responsibilities
- Assist the Head Chef in planning and preparing nutritious, appetising meals.
- Support the delivery of varied menus that cater for special diets, allergies, and cultural preferences.
- Maintain excellent food hygiene, health and safety, and infection control standards.
- Supervise kitchen staff and support the day-to-day running of the kitchen.
- Monitor food stock levels and assist with ordering and stock control.
- Ensure all meals are served on time and to a high standard.
- Help maintain accurate records in line with CQC and food safety requirements.
- Promote a positive and collaborative working environment.
About You
- Previous experience as a Sous Chef, Senior Chef de Partie, or similar role.
- A passion for producing high-quality, nutritious food.
- Knowledge of dietary requirements within a care setting.
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 3 desirable).
- Strong organisational and communication skills.
- The ability to work effectively within a team and independently.
- A caring, compassionate, and resident-focused approach.
If you are a dedicated chef who takes pride in creating exceptional meals and would like to join a team that values care, compassion, and quality, we would love to hear from you. Apply now!
Oakland Care is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults. All successful applicants will be subject to appropriate employment and DBS checks.
Sous Chef - Berkshire Manor-Catering in Bracknell employer: Oakland Care
Oakland Care is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of both its residents and staff. Located in Wantage, we offer a supportive work culture where Registered Nurses can thrive through mentorship and continuous professional development. With flexible zero-hour shifts, competitive pay, and benefits like free meals and enhanced holiday pay, we ensure our team feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Berkshire Manor-Catering in Bracknell
✨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 Oakland Care. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Oakland Care
Don't be shy about reaching out to Oakland Care 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 Sous Chef - Berkshire Manor-Catering in Bracknell
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 Oakland Care 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 Oakland Care
✨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!