Job Description

Job Title

: Care Home Cook

Location

: Ashburton House Care Home, West Street, Ashburton, Devon, TQ13 7DT

Hours:

Part time - 15 to 22.5 hrs per week

Reporting To:

Care Home Manager

Job Summary:

The Cook will be responsible for the preparation and serving of meals during day time service, daily kitchen tasks, and overall upkeep of the kitchen and dining areas. The ideal candidate will have experience catering to a variety of dietary needs and preferences, specifically for elderly individuals.

Key Responsibilities

:

1. Meal Preparation: Prepare nutritious, well-balanced meals to ensure the dietary needs of our residents are met, considering special dietary restrictions and individual preferences.

2. Menu Planning: Collaborate with the care team and dietitian (if applicable) to develop and maintain a rotating menu that accommodates the specific dietary requirements of our residents, such as low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, vegetarian, and allergen-free options.

3. Kitchen Safety & Hygiene: Maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety in the kitchen. Ensure food is stored and cooked at correct temperatures; utilising the Food Standards Agency "Safer Food Better Business", working practices and recording systems.

4. Inventory Management: Monitor food and kitchen supply inventory, ensuring stocks are adequate and fresh. Participate in the ordering of new supplies as needed.

5. Teamwork & Communication: Work closely with care staff to ensure residents' nutritional needs are met and preferences are accommodated. Report any changes or concerns in residents' eating habits or health.

6. Regulation Compliance: Stay updated with the latest food regulations and dietary guidelines. Ensure the kitchen operates in compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations.

7. Cleaning, Hygiene & Infection Control: Complete daily and weekly cleaning tasks and schedules maintaining high standards of hygiene throughout the working environment conforming to regulatory standards.

Qualifications and Skills

:

1. Proven experience as a cook in a professional setting, preferably within a care home environment.

2. Knowledge of various cooking procedures and methods.

3. Familiarity with catering for special dietary needs, particularly for elderly individuals.

4. High standards of cleanliness and hygiene.

5. Knowledge of health and safety regulations and practices.

6. Good organisational and time management skills.

7. Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively.

8. Compassion and understanding for elderly individuals and their specific needs.

9. Culinary school diploma or relevant certification would be a plus.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 12.21 per hour

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:

Devon, TQ13 7DT: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:

Chef: 1 year (preferred) Cooking: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: Cook - Aug 2025