At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare delicious meals for up to 40 people and manage kitchen operations.
- Company: Join Portsmouth City Council, a unique organisation dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, shift allowance, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make an impact by creating nutritious meals while working in a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: Advanced catering qualification and basic food hygiene certificate required.
- Other info: Flexible rota-based hours with opportunities for skill development.
The predicted salary is between 26473 - 28239 £ per year.
Salary: Band: 5, £26,473 - £28,239 pa, plus 7.5% shift allowance if applicable.
37 hours per week - You are required to work on a rota basis covering Monday - Sunday as per needs of the service. To be discussed at interview.
Portsmouth City Council is a unique organisation, committed to making a difference, and is guided by core values that set who we are as people, what we stand for, and how we act. We are committed to our values of respect, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity and being people‑focussed.
Job introduction: We are looking for a Cook. This is a full time role based at Shearwater in Southsea.
Your new role: As Cook you will be preparing food on a daily basis, with the help of a kitchen assistant/s, producing nutritionally based meals, including dietary requirements, for up to 40 people. You will be required to plan and produce a varied and exciting menu whilst managing a set budget as well as being responsible for the overall Health and Safety in the kitchen including induction of any new staff. You will also support the activity team to cater for special activities/events within Shearwater. Following the stock ordering process, you will liaise with various suppliers and check with the delivery of supplies whilst arranging appropriate storage. You will work with the wider Shearwater team to ensure all kitchen records are kept up to date, ensuring policies and procedures are being followed, whilst overseeing the kitchen cleaning schedule and ensure all kitchen staff are following national guidance provided including COSHH.
Who is the person summary: With proven cookery skills, you will need an advanced qualification in catering, for example, City and Guilds 701/702 and a basic food hygiene certificate (or be working towards a suitable qualification). You will have experience of ordering stock and the ability to keep within a set budget whilst still providing quality and varied food with minimal waste. You will be required to have a good knowledge of food and nutrition requirements, including a good range of special dietary requirements, and a knowledge and understanding of food safety including IDDSI and food intolerances or allergies. (IDDSI training will be provided). With good interpersonal and communication skills you will be flexible to enable you to adapt to changing workloads and requirements of the unit with the ability to organise and lead kitchen staff.
Our recruitment process: Full information about our recruitment process can be found on our support for applicants' page. Please ensure that you read the job profile for full details on the post. This role works on a rota basis details of which to be discussed at interview and confirmed on appointment. You must demonstrate why you are suitable against each of the points described in the 'Who is the Person' points on the Job Profile using examples from your experience or transferable skills. This might be through qualifications or descriptive examples from your work / personal experience, which clearly illustrates what you did and the effect it had. If you apply without a detailed personal statement, it is unlikely that you will be successful. Please note this interview process will be two phases. If you are successful to pass the initial interview you will be invited back to demonstrate your cooking skills by cooking one cake and one pot savoury dish that requires the use of herbs and spices. All items will be provided on the day and taste tested by our residents.
We are a disability confident employer and Armed Forces Covenant gold standard. More information can be found at Equality, diversity and inclusion. Should you require any support in completing the application form please contact recruit@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call the recruitment team on 023 92 616 800. You will need to demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. No post will be offered without it. Portsmouth City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults at risk and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Every post is subject to PCC and Portsmouth Safeguarding Adults Board safer recruitment procedures. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) at Standard/Enhanced level will be required prior to any offer of employment and this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. You will need to explain any gaps in your career history within the last 5 years - this is essential for all safeguarding roles.
Cook in Tenby employer: Portsmouth City Council
Contact Detail:
Portsmouth City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Tenby
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Portsmouth City Council. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you show that you're not just a great cook, but also a great fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills! Since you'll need to demonstrate your abilities during the interview, whip up some dishes at home. Focus on using herbs and spices creatively, and make sure you can talk about your process and choices when it comes to nutrition and dietary needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples from your past experiences. Think of specific times when you managed a kitchen, ordered stock, or catered for special dietary requirements. Being able to share these stories will help you stand out and show that you have the right skills for the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through directly. It shows you're serious about the role and gives us a chance to connect with you better. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
We think you need these skills to ace Cook in Tenby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Profile Carefully: Before you start your application, make sure to read the job profile thoroughly. It’s crucial to understand what they’re looking for so you can tailor your personal statement to highlight your relevant experience and skills.
Showcase Your Experience: When writing your personal statement, use specific examples from your past work or personal experiences that demonstrate how you meet the 'Who is the Person' criteria. This is your chance to shine, so don’t hold back!
Be Detailed and Specific: Avoid vague statements in your application. Instead, provide detailed descriptions of your achievements and how they relate to the role. The more specific you are, the better your chances of standing out!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the key ingredients and dietary requirements mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss how you can cater to various dietary needs while keeping meals exciting and nutritious.
✨Showcase Your Budgeting Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen budget in the past. Discuss your strategies for minimising waste while still providing quality meals, as this will demonstrate your ability to handle the financial aspects of the role.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership
Think about times when you've led a team or trained new staff. Be prepared to share specific examples that highlight your interpersonal skills and how you foster collaboration in the kitchen.
✨Practice Your Cooking Demo
Since you'll need to cook during the interview, practice making a cake and a savoury dish that uses herbs and spices. Focus on presentation and taste, as these will be evaluated by the residents. Make sure to showcase your cooking techniques and creativity!