At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team and create delicious, nutritious meals for our residents.
- Company: Join PJ Care, the UK's best-rated care home to work for!
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 19 days holiday, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a supportive team and a vibrant work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: 2-3 years of Lead Chef experience in healthcare is essential.
The predicted salary is between 15.52 - 15.52 £ per hour.
RESPONSIBLE TO: Head of Hospitality and Catering / Head Chef
ACCOUNTABLE TO: Registered Manager
LOCATION: Mallard House in Milton Keynes
HOURS: 3 days a week working from 8am to 5pm (24 hours a week)
RATE: £15.52 per hour
PJ Care has been rated as the "Best Care Home to work for in the UK" as voted for by our staff and is a leading provider of specialist neurological care and neuro rehabilitation for people with progressive or acquired neurological conditions.
Do you have a passion for food and want a full-time career within the hospitality industry? Do you have more than 2 years Lead Chef experience within the health care sector and looking for a new challenge? Do you want to take a team of up-and-coming hungry chefs to be able to train and mould them into the ideal brigade you want beside you?
You will receive a minimum of 5-6 months working alongside our current Head Chef to fully support you in your new role to provide all the training and impart their knowledge to make your welcome into our team as personal to you as possible.
Do you want full input into our menus and numerous speciality themed menu days & events we run throughout the year where no 2 weeks are the same? Do you want every other weekend off & Competitive hourly overtime rate (Subject to change)? Are you looking for a job which can guarantee job security, career progression for you and your team whilst working sociable hours?
The hours are 8am to 5pm three days a week but may vary to cover shifts within the kitchen to a 7 to 7 shift on occasions when required by the team and management. Catering for 53 residents - 3 Services a day using our all-new digital menu ordering platform.
Aim of position
To assist with management of the day-to-day provision of Catering services to PJ Care Ltd ensuring strict food hygiene standards and the Health & Safety of the kitchen areas and catering staff are maintained, in tandem with the opposite Shift Lead Chef and responsibilities are shared equally whilst helping to run a shift and take responsibility of the kitchen in the head chef's absence.
Responsibilities
- Management
When on shift you are responsible for the running of the kitchen and the team. Provide leadership and direction to the Catering Team during your rota'd shift pattern. Develop communication system with the Head Chef and other Shift Lead Chef and ensure continuity of service. Attend management meetings, as required. Carry out regular monthly audits of the Catering service provision, alongside the other Shift Lead Chef ensuring standards are maintained. Ensure compliance with PJ Care Ltd Catering Policy and Procedure.
- Catering
Ensure the catering service meets the nutritional and dietary needs of the residents with regard to personal preferences and allergies, in accordance with Company policies and procedures. Help to assist the Catering Manager & Head Chef to produce five weekly menu plans on a seasonal rota providing a varied diet within budgetary restraints. Assist in the preparation of a costed menu programme for PJ Care Ltd. Help assist and run culture days. To learn and assist the kitchen team with all IDDSI diet levels - Training will be given but preferred knowledge would be desirable.
When required, ensure all statutory standards in relation to the catering services are met in full, and to keep up to date appropriate records in the correct files. Maintain sufficient stocks of dry, chilled and frozen goods to meet the requirements of the menu plan. Carry out audits of catering areas to ensure compliance with HACCP and other legislation, good stock management, including labelling and rotation of stock reporting to the Head of Hospitality and Catering / Head Chef. Be able to maintain our 5-star rating with leading EHO around our kitchen when inspected or for internal audits done by the company. Be able to train and develop hungry up-and-coming chefs to learn all the skills needed to excel under you and for PJ Care.
Their main place of work will be Mallard House but if the business needs it they can be used at Bluebirds and Eaglewood as well or other kitchens that fall under our umbrella where there is a business need. You will be required to work 3 days a week and will need to be flexible due to the kitchen's requirements and also when it comes to covering sickness or holidays you may be required to do the 7am to 7pm shift as well. You must be flexible and able to come in when needed too.
Essential
- A minimum of 2-3 years' experience of Lead Chef in the Health Care sector.
- A full driving license.
- Able to train and work alongside the current Head Chef for up to 6 months to gain the confidence to do the role yourself.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly pay: £15.52
- Enhanced pay options
- 19 days holiday
- Fully funded enhanced DBS
- Long-service awards and recognition
- Career development opportunities with salary increments
At PJ Care our residents are at the heart of everything we do, and we strive to nurture dignity, independence and holistic wellbeing through the specialist care models, therapies and activities we provide. This includes our resident's mealtime experiences.
If this sounds like a bit of you then we would love to hear from you and welcome you as part of our kitchen team and part of the PJ Care family. This isn't just a job it's a lifestyle.
PJ Care are individually responsible and expected to safeguard and promote the safety and welfare of all individuals who access PJ Care services to ensure everyone is protected from actual or potential harm. PJ Care Ltd strongly believes in the promotion of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in all areas of life, but particularly in the workspace and is proactive in supporting every member of our team and residents to reach their true potential.
Bank&Nbsp;Shift Lead Chef in Milton Keynes employer: PJ Care Ltd
At PJ Care, located in Peterborough, we pride ourselves on being an award-winning employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of our team. As a Housekeeping and Laundry Assistant, you will enjoy competitive pay, generous holiday allowances, and a culture that fosters innovation and collaboration, all while making a meaningful impact in the lives of our residents. Join us to be part of a supportive environment that champions equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels valued and empowered.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bank&Nbsp;Shift Lead Chef in Milton Keynes
✨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 PJ Care Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to PJ Care Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to PJ Care Ltd 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 Bank&Nbsp;Shift Lead Chef in Milton Keynes
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 PJ Care Ltd 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 PJ Care Ltd
✨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!
