At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve meals while maintaining high hygiene standards in a professional kitchen.
- Company: Join a supportive team at Woodlands, JJC, dedicated to providing quality catering services.
- Benefits: Earn £13.75PH with flexible hours and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on teamwork and communication.
- Why this job: Make a difference by catering to young people in care while honing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Level 3 NVQ in Professional Cookery or equivalent and 6 months experience required.
The predicted salary is between 51000 - 52000 € per year.
We are currently recruiting a Cook for our client based in Bangor. The successful candidates will be required to start once the vetting paperwork and ANI are completed.
Start date: ASAP
Rate of pay: £13.75PH
Duration: 01/10/2026
Hours of work: The shift pattern for a Cook is based on a 37 hour week. The actual hours worked per week will vary as they will be calculated across your assigned shift cycle and will include weekends and public/privilege holidays. The current shift pattern is based on a four-week cycle. Shift start time is 9.00 am and finish time is 5.00 pm, there may be some variation to this on occasions to meet emerging business needs at any given time. A shift will start when you are on post and will end when you leave your post. Time spent travelling to and from your post is not included as part of your shift. Shift patterns will change from time to time to meet operational needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- The post holder will be responsible for providing a professional catering service, ensuring that Woodlands, JJC standards are maintained.
- The post holder will have a hands-on involvement in the successful day-to-day running of the catering department.
- The post holder will also help maintain the environmental health high hygiene rating, 5 stars on the door.
- Operational preparation and service of food and beverages using appropriate methods as required by Woodlands to meet the requirements for the young people being held in custody, and the staff who provide care to these young people.
- To deal with special dietary needs by following the instructions of the catering manager.
- When the manager is not on duty, the post holder will liaise with the team leader or medical officer to meet the special dietary needs of the young person.
- Assist the catering manager with the compilation, distribution and collation of menus to meet the nutritional need and requirements of the young people in care.
- Maintain a professional, clean and hygienic kitchen, and carry out / assist and monitor such standards in compliance with food safety regulations and COSHH.
- Carry out cleaning duties as laid out by Safe Food Policy (Environmental Health) in order to maintain standards and prepare cleaning rotas and schedules.
- Carry out specialist cleaning duties which may be required.
- Ensure safe working practice at all times and support the implementation of best practices and policies.
- Inspect equipment, and report any faults immediately to the Catering Manager.
- Inspect kitchen and ensure all risks are currently managed.
- Support and assist the catering manager in all aspects of the management of the kitchen.
- Liaise with young people and staff to establish good communication and promote input from children.
- Attend departmental and other operational support meetings as required.
- Actively participate in meeting training needs contained in the post holder’s Personal Development Plan.
- Advise catering assistants with queries they would have, try to improve their catering skills.
- To cook and prepare meals in accordance with the menu to ensure the correct portion control to prevent unnecessary wastage and excessive cost to the catering department.
- Monitor all food products to ensure that there is no unnecessary disposal of food products before the correct expiry date.
- Store all food correctly to prevent accelerated detrition that would cause the disposal of the original product and the reordering of the same.
- Advise catering management on means of improving the cost efficiency of meals.
- Use cleaning products in the recommended quantities.
- Order products and issue supplies within Woodlands, JJC and maintain records of stores as required i.e - food temperatures, delivery date, expiry date, quality of all food products delivered to kitchen.
- Assist with the receipt, unloading/loading of supplies and equipment and comply with food hygiene standards and Health & Safety procedures.
- Assist in maintaining adequate supplies of food at house unit level.
- Report shortages to catering manager and inform of new products needing to be ordered.
Essential Criteria applicants must have:
- Level 3 NVQ – Diploma in Professional Cookery OR City & Guilds 705 and 706 or equivalent.
- 6 months demonstrable experience in a Cook position in a professional capacity.
- A current Level 2 Food Hygiene qualification.
- A criminal record will not necessarily be a bar to obtaining a position.
The UK Recruitment Co. Ltd has policies on the Recruitment of Ex-Offenders and the Secure Handling, Use, Storage, and Retention of Disclosure Information, copies of which can be made available upon request. Please send your CV via the link or email.
Cook Bangor ASAP Start employer: The Recruitment Co.
Join our team in Bangor as a Cook, where you'll be part of a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and teamwork. We offer competitive pay, flexible shift patterns, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in care while maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene. With a focus on employee growth and a commitment to excellence, this role provides a rewarding environment for those passionate about catering and community service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook Bangor ASAP Start
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research their values and culture so you can tailor your approach. When you apply through our website, make sure to highlight how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about how your skills as a cook can meet the specific needs of the role. Show them you’re ready to hit the ground running!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in the position. Don’t forget to apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Cook Bangor ASAP Start
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience and skills that match the Cook role. We want to see how your background fits with what we're looking for, so don’t be shy about showcasing your culinary achievements!
Show Off Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your Level 3 NVQ or City & Guilds qualifications! We’re keen on seeing your food hygiene certification too, as it’s super important for maintaining those high standards we pride ourselves on.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your experience and skills are easy to read and understand. No need for fluff – just the good stuff!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Recruitment Co.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your culinary skills and knowledge of food hygiene regulations. Be ready to discuss your experience with special dietary needs and how you maintain high standards in the kitchen.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for cooking shine through during the interview. Talk about what inspires you in the kitchen and how you can contribute to creating a positive environment for the young people and staff.
✨Be Prepared for Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations, like managing dietary restrictions or maintaining cleanliness under pressure. Think of examples from your past experience that demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the team you'll be working with. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you understand if the job is the right fit for you.