At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve nutritious meals for residents, ensuring dietary needs are met.
- Company: Join MHA, a caring organisation dedicated to enhancing the lives of older people.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days holiday, a strong pension scheme, and flexible leave options.
- Other info: Supportive culture with ongoing training and clear career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives through quality food and service.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking and knowledge of food safety principles preferred.
The predicted salary is between 15 - 15 £ per hour.
Location: Callin Court, Chester
Hours: Permanent - Part Time - 30 hours per week
Salary: £15.57 per hour
We are considering candidates who live within approximately 15 miles of the Scheme. If you live outside this area but would still find the commute manageable, please let us know.
About the Role
We are looking for a skilled and motivated Chef to join our catering team at MHA. This is a rewarding role where you will play a vital part in supporting residents’ health, wellbeing and enjoyment of daily life through high‑quality, nutritious meals. As a Chef, you will be responsible for preparing and serving meals that meet residents’ dietary and nutritional needs, while respecting individual choice, dignity and cultural preferences. You will help maintain a safe, efficient and welcoming kitchen environment, in line with food safety legislation and MHA values.
What You Will Do
- Prepare, cook and serve nutritious meals for residents, visitors and staff, including catering for occasional events.
- Plan menus with the Home Manager to ensure meals are balanced, appealing and meet individual dietary needs, including those of residents living with dementia.
- Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety and HACCP requirements, maintaining accurate records and audits.
- Manage food stocks and ordering, ensuring cost‑effectiveness and adherence to agreed budgets.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in all kitchen and food storage areas.
- Supervise and support kitchen assistants and oversee others using the kitchen.
- Assist with the induction and training of new kitchen staff.
- Attend staff and resident meetings where appropriate.
About You
We’re looking for someone who is organised, reliable and passionate about delivering good‑quality food and service for older people.
You Will Bring
- Previous experience cooking in a care, hospitality, restaurant or pub environment.
- Knowledge and understanding of food safety and HACCP principles.
- The ability to work well as part of a team and communicate clearly with colleagues.
- A flexible approach to work and willingness to work a 7‑day rota.
- Sensitivity to the needs of older people and a commitment to quality and customer‑focused service.
- Willingness to undertake further training and development as required.
- Relevant catering qualifications (e.g. City & Guilds, NVQ Level 2, or equivalent) are desirable but not essential.
Why Join MHA?
You will be joining an organisation with strong values, a supportive culture and a genuine commitment to helping people live later life well. At MHA, catering plays a central role in residents’ wellbeing, and your contribution will be valued and recognised.
Rewards and Benefits
- 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) and the ability to buy annual leave (pro‑rota for part time).
- A strong pension scheme and life assurance.
- Free DBS checks and uniforms (where applicable).
- Confidential counselling, chaplaincy support and access to our hardship fund.
- Flexible options to buy or sell annual leave, plus family‑friendly policies.
- Discounts through the Blue Light Card, Health Service Discounts and the Vivup app.
- A full induction, ongoing training and clear development opportunities.
- Long‑service awards to celebrate your contribution.
Chef based at Callin Court, Chester employer: Whats On In Chester
MHA is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its staff and residents alike, fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture at Callin Court, Chester. As a Chef, you will not only enjoy competitive pay and generous benefits, including 28 days of holiday and a strong pension scheme, but also have the opportunity for personal growth through ongoing training and development. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of older people while working in a welcoming environment that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef based at Callin Court, Chester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to friends, family, and former colleagues in the catering industry. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your chef skills showcased! Consider doing a trial shift or a cooking demo if the opportunity arises. It’s a great way to show off your culinary talents and fit within the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay flexible with your availability. Since this role involves a 7-day rota, being open to various shifts can make you a more attractive candidate. Plus, it shows your commitment to the job!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities there, so keep checking back!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef based at Callin Court, Chester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking:When writing your application, let us know why you love cooking and how it connects to supporting residents' wellbeing. Share any personal experiences that highlight your passion for delivering quality meals.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to mention any previous roles in care, hospitality, or restaurants. We want to see how your background aligns with the skills we’re looking for, especially in preparing nutritious meals for older people.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team at Callin Court.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this rewarding role in our catering team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Whats On In Chester
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the dietary needs and preferences of older people, especially those living with dementia. Be ready to discuss how you would plan menus that are not only nutritious but also appealing and respectful of individual choices.
✨Showcase Your Kitchen Skills
Prepare to talk about your previous cooking experiences in care or hospitality settings. Highlight specific dishes you've prepared and how you ensured they met food safety and hygiene standards. Bring along a portfolio if you have one!
✨Team Player Vibes
Emphasise your ability to work well within a team. Share examples of how you've supported kitchen assistants or trained new staff in the past. This role is all about collaboration, so show them you’re a team player!
✨Passion for Quality Service
Express your commitment to delivering high-quality food and service. Discuss why you believe catering is vital for residents' wellbeing and how you can contribute to making their dining experience enjoyable and fulfilling.
