At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook meals, ensuring high standards and adapting for dietary needs.
- Company: Join the opening team of a modern bistro at Thurrock Hospice.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity to learn from a MasterChef finalist, and career growth.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative concept that supports community wellbeing through food.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and a food hygiene qualification are preferred.
The predicted salary is between 25200 - 30100 £ per year.
We are seeking a Back of House Cook to ensure excellent catering for patients, staff and visitors. In addition, successful applicants will join the opening team for a new Bistro 'Seasons @St. Luke’s by AnuragFoodStory' opening in Summer 2026. The bistro will be welcoming and modern; reimagining how food can support wellbeing in a care setting, whilst opening doors for the local community to enjoy excellent food in beautiful surroundings.
The Hospice is inviting hospitality professionals at all stages of their careers - from entry-level to experienced - to be part of the project. The role offers the opportunity to:
- work alongside a BBC MasterChef UK finalist and published author,
- develop and grow hospitality and catering skills,
- be part of a new and innovative hospitality concept, and
- be part of a team making a tangible difference in the community.
In this role you will:
- Prepare and cook meals according to menus, recipes and portion specifications ensuring consistency and presentation standards are met.
- Adapt meals to meet individual dietary needs, allergies and cultural preferences, following guidance from dietetic or clinical teams where required.
- Ensure all food is stored, labelled and rotated correctly to maintain freshness and minimise waste.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen, complying with Food Hygiene Regulations and internal policies.
- Operate kitchen equipment safely and report any maintenance or safety issues promptly.
- Support menu planning and contribute ideas for seasonal and cost‑effective dishes that meet nutritional and budgetary requirements.
- Assist with stock ordering, deliveries and accurate record keeping to control food costs.
- Work collaboratively with clinical and domestic teams to coordinate meal times and special requests.
- Follow all organisational policies including health and safety, confidentiality and infection control procedures.
The successful candidate will:
- Have previous experience working in a commercial, healthcare or catering environment.
- Hold a recognised food hygiene qualification (Level 2 Food Safety in Catering or equivalent) or be willing to obtain one.
- Demonstrate practical cooking skills, attention to detail and the ability to produce food consistently to a high standard.
- Be organised, able to follow instructions and work effectively under time pressures.
- Have good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Be flexible with working patterns, including occasional early starts, evenings or weekends as required by service needs.
- Be able to perform manual handling tasks and stand for extended periods; reasonable adjustments can be considered.
Salary: £25,200 – £30,100 per annum (depending on experience)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time, 7:30 am–3:30 pm shift, with occasional need to work evenings and weekends as required.
Location: Thurrock Hospice
Right to work: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. We are unable to sponsor work permits or visas.
Belonging, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates who are under‑represented in our workforce. Adjustments can be made to support applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.
Cook - Thurrock employer: St Luke’s Hospice
Join us at Thurrock Hospice as a Cook and be part of an exciting new venture with the opening of 'Seasons @St. Luke’s by AnuragFoodStory' in Summer 2026. We offer a supportive work culture that values your growth, providing opportunities to learn from industry experts while making a meaningful impact on the community through exceptional catering. With a focus on inclusivity and professional development, this role is perfect for those looking to enhance their culinary skills in a modern, welcoming environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook - Thurrock
✨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 St Luke’s Hospice. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to St Luke’s Hospice
Don't be shy about reaching out to St Luke’s Hospice 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 - Thurrock
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 St Luke’s Hospice 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 St Luke’s Hospice
✨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!
