Kitchen Assistant

3 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

To support the day-to-day operation of the kitchen within an adults' residential or care establishment, ensuring the provision of nutritious, high-quality meals for residents, staff and visitors.

The postholder will undertake kitchen duties and, when required, provide cover for the Chef Manager, taking responsibility for meal preparation, menu delivery, food safety compliance and kitchen supervision.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and serve meals to residents and staff.
  
• Provide Chef Manager cover during periods of absence.
  
• Assist with menu planning and meal preparation.
  
• Ensure meals meet nutritional, dietary and cultural requirements.
  
• Maintain high standards of food quality and presentation.
  
• Support the day-to-day running of the kitchen.
  
• Supervise kitchen operations when acting as Chef cover.
  
• Ensure compliance with food hygiene, food safety and health and safety regulations.
  
• Monitor food temperatures and maintain required records.
  
• Follow allergen management procedures.
  
• Receive, check and safely store food deliveries.
  
• Manage stock rotation and minimise food waste.
  
• Maintain a clean, safe and hygienic kitchen environment.
  
• Clean kitchen equipment, utensils and food preparation areas.
  
• Work collaboratively with catering and care staff.
  
• Report equipment faults, maintenance issues and health and safety concerns.
  
• Contribute to positive dining experiences for residents.
  

Requirements

Essential

• Previous experience working within a kitchen, catering or food preparation environment.
  
• Experience preparing meals for groups of people.
  
• Ability to provide chef cover and work independently when required.
  
• Good understanding of food hygiene and food safety requirements.
  
• Knowledge of allergen management and dietary requirements.
  
• Ability to work efficiently in a busy kitchen environment.
  
• Good organisational and communication skills.
  
• Ability to work as part of a team.
  
• Reliable and flexible approach.
  

Desirable

• Previous experience within a care home, residential setting or adults' establishment.
  
• Food Safety / Food Hygiene Certificate.
  
• Experience supervising kitchen staff.
  
• Knowledge of nutrition for older adults or vulnerable individuals.
  
• Catering or Professional Cookery qualification.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Central Bedfordshire, SG19 1NE
  
• Hours Per Week: 35 Hours
  
• Payment Frequency: Bi-Weekly Payments