Description
At New Victoria Hospital, we're committed to delivering exceptional patient experiences through outstanding clinical care and support services. Great food plays an important role in a patient's recovery and overall experience, and we're looking for an experienced Second Chef to help us deliver high-quality, nutritious meals to patients, visitors and colleagues every day.
Working closely with the Head Chef, you'll support the day-to-day operation of the hospital kitchen, ensuring food is prepared and presented to the highest standards while complying with all food safety and hygiene requirements.
You'll play a key role in delivering an exceptional dining experience by producing nutritious, high-quality meals and supporting the smooth running of a busy catering service.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare, cook and present meals to consistently high standards.
- Support the planning and development of menus that are nutritious, varied and patient focused.
- Ensure all meals are produced in line with dietary, allergen and nutritional requirements.
- Assist with stock control, ordering and inventory management.
- Monitor food quality, portion control and presentation standards.
- Maintain rigorous food safety, hygiene and infection prevention standards.
- Complete daily kitchen documentation, including temperature monitoring and cleaning records.
- Minimize food waste and contribute to efficient cost management.
- Support and guide catering team members to ensure a collaborative and productive working environment.
- Deputise for the Head Chef when required.
- Contribute to catering for special events and functions across the hospital.
- Build positive working relationships with clinical and operational teams to support excellent patient care.
What We're Looking For
Essential
- NVQ Level 2 and Level 3 in Professional Cookery, Catering or equivalent qualification.
- Food Hygiene Certificate.
- Significant experience working within a professional catering environment.
- Strong knowledge of food safety legislation and kitchen hygiene standards.
- Experience of stock control, ordering and cost management.
- Excellent organisational and communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively within a fast-paced environment.
- Flexible approach with the ability to work across a 7-day rota.
Desirable
- Previous experience within a healthcare or hospital setting.
- Advanced catering or culinary qualifications.
- Knowledge of specialist dietary requirements and therapeutic diets.
Benefits
- Annual leave entitlement of 25 days + bank holidays increasing with length of service
- In-house training for all staff
- Company pension scheme
- Life assurance
- Employee Referral Scheme
- Access to subsidised staff restaurant
- Interest free travel loan
- Private healthcare (T&Cs Apply)
- Bicycle Loan Scheme
- Retailer discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme