At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook meals for elderly residents while ensuring hygiene standards.
- Company: Join a caring team dedicated to providing quality service in a supportive environment.
- Benefits: Earn £12.71 per hour, enjoy paid training, and access mental health support.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for career growth in a rewarding field.
- Why this job: Make a difference in the lives of residents while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: 1 year of kitchen experience and basic food preparation knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 12.71 - 12.71 £ per hour.
Overview
We are looking for a Full Time Catering Assistant to join our Aughnacloy team.
Full time – 36 hours per week, 3 x 12hr shifts between Monday to Sunday. The working hours will be between 7am and 7pm.
The role supports the Kitchen Supervisor in preparation and cooking of food for elderly residents. Sponsorship is not available for this role.
Duties
- Preparation and cooking of meals.
- Stock ordering.
- Ensure hygiene procedures are followed at all times.
- Maintain up-to-date working knowledge of all kitchen duties.
- Record food/equipment temperatures.
- Accurate record keeping in accordance with company guidelines and legislation.
- Attend staff meetings and training sessions.
- Complete all paperwork accurately.
- Communicate regularly with the line manager.
- Adhere to all policies and procedures as laid down by the company.
- Adhere to all Health and Safety guidelines.
- Ensure the confidentiality of residents, colleagues and the company at all times.
- Work as part of a team.
- Provide a quality service at all times.
- Carry out any other duties as may be reasonably required.
Essential Criteria
- Minimum of 1 year kitchen experience, including basic food preparation and temperature control.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience working within a hospital or nursing home environment.
- Basic Food Hygiene certificate.
Benefits
- Excellent pay – £12.71 per hour.
- Enhanced bank holiday rate.
- Access to Employee Mental Health Support Line.
- Paid training and induction.
- Free on-site parking.
- Free uniform.
- Company pension scheme.
- Eligibility to apply for a Blue Light discount card.
- Background Checks
The company operates a no smoking policy and requires a satisfactory enhanced Access NI check. Ex‑offender policy applies.
Closing Date
Monday 27th July 2026. The company reserves the right to close the job early.
Equal Opportunity
We are an equal opportunities employer.
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Catering Assistant employer: Optimum Care Group
Join our dedicated team in Aughnacloy as a Catering Assistant, where you will play a vital role in providing quality meals for elderly residents. We offer competitive pay, enhanced bank holiday rates, and a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being with access to mental health support and paid training. With opportunities for growth and a commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety, this is an excellent place to build a rewarding career in the catering sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant
✨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 Optimum Care Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Optimum Care Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Optimum Care 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 Catering Assistant
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 Optimum Care 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 Optimum Care 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!