Chef

Chef

Location: Felpham, Bognor Regis

Hours: 31.5 Hours a week (08:00 – 18:30, Working every other weekend)

Reporting To: Head Chef

Accountable To: Registered Manager

Salary

• £14.91 per hour (Monday to Friday)
• £15.91 per hour (Saturday and Sunday)
• Overtime: £22.37 per hour

Job Purpose and Description

At Oakland Care Group, we are committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care within a welcoming and warm environment. Mealtimes are of great significance in our residents’ daily routines, and we take pride in offering nutritious, homely food that promotes wellbeing and enjoyment. We are presently seeking a dependable and enthusiastic Chef to join our dedicated culinary team.

The responsibilities include preparing and serving superior meals for residents in accordance with the approved menu, ensuring that all food items meet company standards, dietary requirements, and CQC regulations. The role entails producing nutritious and appealing meals, maintaining exemplary hygiene standards, supporting efficient kitchen operations, and fostering a positive dining experience for residents. Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations and promote a safe working environment. Adhere to infection control procedures and uphold high standards of hygiene.

Comply with all infection prevention and control policies to safeguard residents and colleagues. Maintain awareness of safeguarding responsibilities and always act in residents’ best interests.

Principal Duties

• Prepare and cook meals in accordance with the planned menu, including a 3-course lunch and dinner service.
• Ensure all food is of a high standard, nutritious, and tailored to residents’ dietary needs.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment at all times.
• Follow all food hygiene, health & safety, and environmental health regulations.
• Complete required temperature checks, records, and kitchen documentation.
• Assist with stock control and report items required for replenishment.
• Work closely with the kitchen assistant(s) to ensure smooth service delivery.
• Participate in menu planning and contribute ideas to enhance meal variety and nutrition.
• Support catering for events and special occasions as required.
• Follow opening and closing procedures and adhere to company policies.
• Attend all mandatory training, including food hygiene and fire safety.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience in a chef or cook role (ideally within a care or similar setting)
• Ability to prepare meals for a large number of people – typically catering for up to 35 residents.
• Knowledge of food hygiene and health & safety standards
• Good organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Caring and compassionate approach
• Flexible, reliable, and motivated

Desirable

• Experience in a care home environment
• Knowledge of special diets and nutritional requirements
• Food hygiene qualification
• Understanding of CQC standards
• First aid and health & safety training

Benefits

• Enhanced pay for weekends and overtime
• Paid breaks
• Sick pay scheme
• Paid DBS
• Blue Light Card discounts
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Paid induction and training
• Career development and progression opportunities
• Pension contributions
• Employee rewards and recognition
• Refer-a-friend scheme

To Apply

If you are a passionate chef who takes pride in delivering high-quality meals and in making a meaningful difference in residents’ lives, we would love to hear from you.

Please note: This position is NOT open for sponsorship or transfer.