Second Chef – Care Home (Winterbrook)

About the role

Join Barchester Healthcare as a Second Chef in a residential care setting, delivering hotel‑standard meals with a focus on fresh, seasonal produce. You will work alongside the Head Chef to create nutritious, flavourful menus tailored to residents' needs while enjoying a balanced work schedule.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the kitchen in the Head Chef’s absence.
• Assist the Head Chef with menu development and planning.
• Prepare high‑quality dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Maintain a warm, efficient, and welcoming kitchen environment.
• Work within budgetary constraints and conduct regular audits.
• Control stock levels and ensure accurate inventory management.

Required profile

• Personable and warm approach with genuine interest in residents’ wellbeing.
• Hold City & Guilds, NVQ, SVQ or equivalent culinary qualification.
• Good understanding of nutrition and fresh seasonal food handling.
• Confidence engaging with residents to create appealing menus.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP and food safety standards.

Required skills

• City & Guilds/NVQ/SVQ culinary qualification.
• HACCP knowledge.
• Nutrition knowledge.
• Menu development.
• Stock control.
• Budget management.
• Audit experience.

What we offer

• Rewarding Excellence bonus up to £500 for Good or Outstanding CQC inspection.
• Referral scheme with up to £500 per successful referral.
• Retail and leisure discounts.
• Free access to medical specialists, counselling, and legal services.
• Tax code review service and monthly staff lottery.