At a Glance
- Tasks: Help prepare and serve nutritious meals in a supportive kitchen team.
- Company: Well-established care home in Cambridge with a friendly atmosphere.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, pension scheme, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Stable, full-time role with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives through quality meal preparation.
- Qualifications: Previous kitchen experience; knowledge of food hygiene and IDDSI guidelines preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30160 - 30160 £ per year.
We are currently looking for an Assistant Chef to join the kitchen team within a well-established care home in Cambridge. This is a full-time, permanent position and would suit someone with previous kitchen experience who enjoys preparing good quality food and working as part of a supportive team. Experience within a care home or healthcare setting would be beneficial, although candidates from other catering backgrounds will also be considered.
Working alongside the Head Chef, you will help prepare and serve fresh, nutritious meals for residents while ensuring high standards of cleanliness, food safety, and presentation are maintained at all times.
Main Duties
- Assisting with the preparation and service of meals
- Supporting with menu preparation, including special dietary requirements
- Preparing texture modified meals in line with IDDSI guidelines
- Ensuring meals are safe, nutritious, and suitable for residents with swallowing difficulties or specialist dietary needs
- Maintaining food hygiene and kitchen cleanliness in line with HACCP guidelines
- Assisting with deliveries, stock rotation, and storage of food
- Ensuring all kitchen equipment and work areas are kept clean and organised
- Supporting the Head Chef with the smooth running of the kitchen
- Completing temperature checks and kitchen records where required
- Working closely with the wider team to ensure residents receive an excellent dining experience
Requirements
- Previous experience working within a kitchen environment
- Experience within a care home or healthcare setting is desirable
- Good understanding of food hygiene and health & safety
- IDDSI training and experience preparing texture modified food is essential
- Understanding of the importance of preparing meals safely for residents with dysphagia and other swallowing difficulties
- Reliable and able to work well within a team
- Organised and able to work in a busy environment
- Food Hygiene certificate desirable
Why IDDSI & Texture Modified Food Training is Important
Residents within care settings may require texture modified diets due to medical conditions that affect swallowing and eating safely. Knowledge of IDDSI guidelines and texture modified food preparation is essential to ensure meals are prepared to the correct consistency, reducing the risk of choking and supporting residents’ health, nutrition, dignity, and overall wellbeing.
What’s on Offer
- Permanent, full-time role
- Salary of £30,160 per annum
- Supportive working environment
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Pension scheme and company benefits
This is a great opportunity for someone looking for a stable and rewarding role within a friendly care home environment.
Assistant Chef - Care Home in St Albans employer: The Evolve Group
Enhance Catering is an excellent employer for Catering Assistants, offering industry-leading pay rates and total flexibility in scheduling, allowing you to choose when and where you work. With a supportive work culture that prioritises teamwork and customer service, employees benefit from exclusive discounts, free access to industry qualifications, and the opportunity to grow within a dynamic environment. Join us to be part of a friendly kitchen team that values your contributions and provides a rewarding experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Chef - Care Home in St Albans
✨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 The Evolve Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Evolve Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Evolve 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 Assistant Chef - Care Home in St Albans
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 The Evolve 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 The Evolve 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!
