Cook Assistant

Job Summary:

Nazareth House Care Village prides itself on providing highquality, homecooked meals that support the health, dignity, and wellbeing of our residents. We are therefore seeking an experienced and passionate Cook Assistant to join our Catering Team and help deliver an excellent food service to residents, staff, and visitors.

The successful candidate will have proven experience preparing, cooking, and serving food within a professional catering environment, ideally with exposure to caring for Older People. The role requires the ability to work efficiently in a busy kitchen, follow direction, multitask effectively, and consistently present food to a high standard.

Nazareth House Care Village is a leading provider of Nursing and Residential Care for Older People and offers a positive working environment with supportive management, good working conditions, and opportunities for progression. Candidates with restaurant or catering industry experience who are committed to quality service delivery will find this a rewarding role.

Hours / Contract Status:

• Contracted hours: 24-40 hours per week
• Overtime: Available
• Contract type: Permanent

Reporting and Accountability

• Reports to: Catering Manager / Assistant Catering Manager
• Accountable to: General Manager

Essential and Desirable Criteria:

Key Team Behaviours Essential

• Collaborative
• Adaptive
• Respectful
• Flexible
• Supportive
• Honest
• Compassionate
• Loyal

Education and Professional Qualifications:

Essential

• Recognised Catering Qualification
• Food Hygiene Certificate

Desirable

• GCSE English (Grades A-C) or equivalent

Experience / Training:

Essential

• Minimum of 2 years' experience as a Cook in a professional catering or restaurant environment
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Desirable

• Previous experience in a Nursing or Residential Care setting

Specific Skills and Knowledge:

Essential

• Ability to present food to a high standard with understanding of the five basic elements of plating
• Excellent organisational and timemanagement skills
• Commitment to high levels of customer service
• Knowledge of:
• IDDSI Framework
• Food Fortification
• Special Diets
• Food Allergens
• HACCP principles and required records
• Ability to offer alternative food options at short notice
• Confidence in catering for inhouse functions to hotel standards
• Awareness of Data Protection requirements and confidentiality
• Commitment to the care and dignity of Older People
• Respect for residents' individual likes, dislikes, and dietary preferences
• Strong teamworking ethos
• Respect for colleagues, residents, and visitors
• Commitment to ongoing personal and professional development

Job Description:

Food Preparation and Service

• Prepare, cook, and plate meals to a high standard in accordance with the planned menu and residents' dietary needs
• Measure, assemble, and prepare ingredients accurately
• Work collaboratively with the Catering Manager to plan menus and meal schedules
• Ensure meals are nutritious, balanced, attractive, and appetising
• Consult with residents and relatives where appropriate regarding dietary needs and preferences

Kitchen Operations and Stock Control

• Maintain accurate food inventories and control stock rotation
• Ensure food is stored correctly and at appropriate temperatures
• Accept delivered food only when temperature requirements are met
• Record and monitor fridge and freezer temperatures daily
• Ensure food probing procedures are followed and recorded
• Keep accurate records relating to stock shelf life

Hygiene, Health \& Safety

• Ensure the kitchen and all preparation areas are cleaned and sanitised after each shift
• Maintain kitchen equipment in line with manufacturer guidance
• Implement and monitor cleaning regimes
• Uphold the Home's Health \& Safety Policy at all times
• Report accidents, incidents, and equipment faults promptly
• Facilitate inspections by statutory authorities when required

Staff Supervision and Administration

• Supervise Catering Assistants and ensure clear understanding of duties
• Support staff induction and training
• Participate in staff meetings and training sessions
• Assist the Catering Manager with complaint investigations and budgetary control where required

General Responsibilities

• Promote a professional, caring, and efficient image of the Care Village
• Ensure fire safety procedures are understood and followed
• Practice effective use of resources and promote good housekeeping
• Demonstrate flexibility and a positive attitude towards duties
• Undertake any other reasonable duties required to support service delivery
• Uphold the values and ethos of Nazareth House Care Village