Cook

Full-Time 18900 - 23100 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
The Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Prepare nutritious meals and support menu planning for individuals in need.
  • Company: Join the caring team at Devonport Lifehouse, making a difference every day.
  • Benefits: Full-time hours with a supportive work environment and opportunities for personal growth.
  • Other info: Be part of a team that values compassion and community service.
  • Why this job: Use your cooking skills to positively impact the lives of those experiencing homelessness.
  • Qualifications: Experience in catering, knowledge of food hygiene, and good communication skills.

The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ per year.

Working hours

37 hours per week (full time is 40 hours per week)

Interview Date

To be confirmed

Do you enjoy preparing good quality, nutritious food and want your work to make a real difference to people’s daily lives?

We are looking for a Cook to join our catering team at Devonport Lifehouse, a 24-hour supported residential service for individuals 18 and over who are experiencing homelessness.

As Cook, you will support the wellbeing of service users by preparing good quality meals that are nutritious, appetising and prepared to the required standards.

Working as part of the catering team, you will help ensure the kitchen runs smoothly and that food is prepared in line with relevant standards, budgets and service requirements.

Key responsibilities will include

  • Prepare and serve nutritious, appetising meals within agreed standards and costs.
  • Support menu planning, including dietary needs, choice and service user feedback.
  • Maintain food hygiene, health and safety and COSHH standards.
  • Work with catering colleagues to keep the service running effectively.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate

  • Relevant cooking experience, ideally catering for larger groups.
  • Knowledge of food hygiene, health and safety requirements, including safe use of catering equipment.
  • Experience of menu planning, including dietary needs and nutritious meal options.
  • An NVQ or equivalent qualification in Catering Skills.
  • Good communication, customer service and organisational skills.
  • The ability to work within and promote the Christian ethos and values of The Salvation Army.
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Cook employer: The Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory

The Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its employees. With a strong commitment to safer recruitment practices, we foster a supportive work culture that values flexibility and collaboration, ensuring that our team members can thrive both personally and professionally. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying opportunities for development in a compassionate and mission-driven environment.

The Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory

Contact Details:

The Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Cook

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 Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to The Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory

Don't be shy about reaching out to The Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory 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

Cooking Skills
Food Hygiene Knowledge
Health and Safety Compliance
Menu Planning
Dietary Needs Awareness
Customer Service Skills
Organisational Skills

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 Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory 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 Salvation Army UK and Ireland Territory

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!