At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve high-quality meals in a supportive hospitality team.
- Company: Runwood Homes, a leading provider of residential care services.
- Benefits: 28 days holiday, weekly pay, discounts, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with ongoing training and employee recognition.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make a difference in residents' lives through quality food.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering, Food Hygiene Level 2, and understanding of dietary needs.
The predicted salary is between 27800 - 27800 £ per year.
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Care Home: Waterfield House (Hadleigh) and Brewster House (Heybridge)
Hours per week: 36 (16hrs at Waterfield House and 20hrs at Brewster House) - 4 days per week
Salary: £13.45 an hour
About the role:
We are currently recruiting for a Second Chef to join our Hospitality team. Working as a Second Chef at Runwood Homes, you will have the chance to deliver hotel and restaurant standard meals, without the split shifts and long hours. We are looking for warm, motivated, and passionate Second Chefs who are driven by quality and high standards, to deliver person centred hospitality to our residents. Our Second Chefs support our Head Chefs, and take the lead in their absence. This is a dual-site role, joining both Waterfield House and Brewster House. Both are located a short distance away from each other.
Benefits of working with Runwood Homes:
- 28 days Paid Holiday
- Weekly Pay
- Pension Scheme
- Blue Light Card and access to various other discounts on travel, restaurants, days out and leisure
- Employee Assistance Scheme that is also available to immediate family members
- Comprehensive induction and ongoing training
- Free DBS Check and uniform
- Funding and support towards obtaining NVQs
- Opportunities to progress your career within the company
- Free, on-site parking
- Employee of the Month awards
Key responsibilities:
- To ensure that all stages of food preparation are maintained to the highest standards ensuring the well-being of residents.
- To ensure the cooking and serving of meals are in accordance with the menu, the Company requirements.
- To ensure compliance with the Food Safety & Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 / Food Hygiene Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006.
- To ensure the quality of meals produced in terms of presentation and taste.
- To ensure that portion control procedures are maintained ensuring waste is kept to a minimum.
- Ensure individual dietary requirements are met (e.g. high calorie, low sugar etc.) by following appropriate quantity, charts and recipes or adapting dishes if required.
- To ensure that the necessary systems and checks are maintained in order to provide a safe, healthy and efficient working environment.
- To ensure all food and other items are stored correctly.
- To monitor stock, maintain effective stock rotation and place orders where required.
- To deputise for the Head Chef where required.
About you:
The successful Second Chef will have relevant experience within a catering environment. You will have a secure understanding of special dietary and nutritional requirements, and be able to implement methods to ensure these needs are met. You will also have your Food Hygiene Level 2, and ideally an NVQ Level 2.
About Runwood Homes:
Established in 1987, Runwood Homes is a leading provider of residential care, dementia care, and nursing care services, with a portfolio of over 59 homes across the UK. Our commitment to delivering personalised care is at the core of our mission, as we strive to celebrate the lives of each and every one of our residents. At Runwood Homes, we prioritise the professional development of our staff by investing in comprehensive internal, external, and e-training programs at all levels. This dedication to continuous learning and growth ensures that our team is equipped to provide the highest quality of care to our residents. As we look towards the future, our reputation for delivering innovative care for individuals living with dementia continues to flourish. We are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of care excellence and setting new standards in the industry.
All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of adults. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
You can apply for this role by completing our short application form or by visiting the home where one of our team can help you.
Cook - Dual Site employer: Runwood Homes
Runwood Homes is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With competitive benefits such as 28 days of paid holiday, weekly pay, and opportunities for career progression, our team members enjoy a fulfilling work environment where they can make a meaningful impact on the lives of our residents. Located in Hadleigh and Heybridge, our dual-site role as a Second Chef allows you to deliver high-quality meals while enjoying a balanced work-life schedule without the stress of split shifts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook - Dual Site
✨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 Runwood Homes. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Runwood Homes
Don't be shy about reaching out to Runwood Homes 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 Cook - Dual Site
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 Runwood Homes 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 Runwood Homes
✨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!
