Assistant Cook

Assistant Cook Duties and Responsibilities

• To converse with and take personal interest in the residents in order to be fully aware of their personal likes and dislikes. Flexible ‘can do’ attitude
• Willing to support and cater for homes functions & festive occasions.
• To deputise for the Head Cook.
• To be mindful that meal time is one of the highlights of the resident’s day and should be delivered in such a way that respects and promotes this.
• Supporting the Head Cook by also being accountable for food standards and meeting health & safety regulations. To also support the Head Cook in ensuring all practices are of a high standard including the cleanliness and hygiene of the kitchen.
• To cater for the special diets of individual residents taking into account their allergies, nutritional needs, complex diagnoses and medical history.
• To cater for the special diets of individual residents.
• To work in line with the Company’s culture and ethos promoting Commitment, Connection and Compassion within daily duties.
• Keep up to date with the latest techniques with regards to cooking for residents, together with those which entail de-frosting and re-heating.
• To maintain all records relating to the efficient running of the kitchen on a daily basis
• Monitor and ensure that stock is available and replenished to the general rules of hygiene and ensure that ingredients are available to provide the appropriate weeks menus.
• Ensure that the cooking and preparation area is clean and tidy and conforms to the general rules of hygiene.
• Audit the cleanliness of the kitchen and support the kitchen team as needed.
• Be aware of the rules of Health & Safety at work in relation to kitchen practice.
• Be aware of the location of fire blankets and fire extinguishers in the case of fire, and how to use them.
• To assist the Head Cook to compile seasonal menus with residents, senior staff members and families that are varied, and consist of meals that will be suitable for each resident’s needs.
• To undertake courses to develop self and keep abreast of legislation.
• To budget and order in the absence of the Head Cook, adhering to company budget requirements.
• To assist the Head Cook in the delivery of excellence in relation of meal times and dining room experience.

Skills, Characteristics and Experience:

Essential

• •Experience and understanding of managing a budget within company expectations.
• •Hold a Food Hygiene Certificate Level 2 or above.
• •Ability to lead and support a team, to be a team player.
• •Ability to effectively communicate with different departments.
• •To uphold confidentiality at all times.
• •Ability to be adaptable to changes of menu at short notice to meet individual residents wants and needs.

Desirable

• - To hold a clean full UK driving licence.
• - Previous relevant experience preferably within the care sector.
• - Flexibility to assist and support other care homes if required.