Description

Job Title: Cook
Department: Catering
Reporting To: Head Chef    
Hours: 37.5 per week 
Salary: £27,466 per annum 

Job Summary

The Cook is responsible for preparing nutritious high-quality meals for St Joe’s Café and also patients on our Ward, ensuring patients receive meals that are tailored to meet their dietary needs as indicated by our allergy awareness tool and guidance from clinical teams.  This role ensures that food is prepared safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all regulatory standards. The Cook plays a key role in maintaining the overall health and satisfaction of those served in the facility.

Key Responsibilities:

Meal Preparation & Cooking:
Prepare and cook meals according to planned menus, dietary restrictions, and portion control guidelines.
Ensure food is appealing, flavourful, and meets individual dietary needs (e.g., low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, pureed, etc.)

Menu & Dietary Adherence:
Follow recipes and menu plans designed by Head Chef
Accommodate special dietary requests and restrictions.

Food Safety:
Adhere to all food safety standards, including proper storage, handling, and preparation of food.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, equipment, and utensils.

Collaboration:
Work closely with nursing staff, and other healthcare professionals to ensure patient dietary needs are met.
Work closely with Catering Assistants to ensure efficient service to patients/staff in the Café.
Assist in menu planning and contribute ideas for improving meal quality.

Inventory & Supplies:
Monitor food inventory levels and communicate supply needs to the Head Chef / Catering Supervisor.
Ensure efficient use of ingredients to minimise waste.

Customer Service:
Provide exceptional service to patients, visitors, and staff.
Respond to feedback and address dietary concerns promptly and professionally.

Person Specification 

The following specification represents the range of skills, abilities, and experiences etc. relevant to the position. Applicants are expected to meet the attributes that have been identified as essential.

Essential: 

Good standard of general education.
Food Hygiene
Cooking experience in a healthcare/commercial kitchen 
Strong knowledge of food preparation techniques 
Familiarity with Food Safety regulations (e.g HACCP) 
Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment 
Strong Teamwork/Communication Skills  

The closing date for applications is 13th February 2025. 

We reserve the right to close vacancies prior to the advertised closing date, if a large number of suitable applications are received. We encourage early applications to ensure consideration. 

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.