Chef (NJE GR 3)

Plan, prepare, and serve nutritious, balanced, and appealing meals that meet the dietary needs of adults with a wide range of support requirements, including dementia, learning disabilities, autism, mental health conditions, and complex physical health needs. Ensure all meals are produced on time, consistently meet portion standards, and are attractively presented to enhance customer satisfaction. Develop light bites, snack options, and daily refreshments in line with the service’s needs.

Prepare customised meals for individuals requiring s pecial diets (e.g., soft diets, allergies, diabetic, cultural diets, fortified meals) ensuring that all guidance is followed. Consult with staff when needed to ensure meals align with individual support plans and health requirements.

Order food and supplies within a defined budget, monitoring stock levels carefully to avoid shortages or waste. Maintain accurate records relating to orders, stock rotation, temperature monitoring, and due‑diligence logs. Ensure deliveries are checked, stored correctly, and comply with food safety requirements.

Maintain exceptional standards of cleanliness, including sanitising surfaces, equipment, food storage areas, and appliances in line with cleaning schedules. Follow the Safer Food, Better Business food policy, ensuring compliance with food hygiene legislation and internal safety procedures. Carry out and document routine checks such as fridge/freezer temperatures, cooking temperatures, cleaning tasks, and hazard reports. Demonstrate safe use of kitchen equipment and report defects promptly to ensure efficient repair.

Oversee the work of the Catering Assistant, providing guidance, support, and task allocation to ensure smooth service operation. Coordinate with support staff, day service teams, and management to ensure meals align with the needs and schedules of service users. Promote a positive, flexible, and collaborative working environment, modelling the Council’s values.

Interact with service users in a respectful, supportive manner, recognising their diverse needs and ensuring dignity and choice around food. Adjust meal preparations or support flexible serving options when an individual requires assistance.

Complete all required due diligence tasks, including food safety logs, cleaning records, and stock checks. Support smooth daily operations by preparing the kitchen at the start of the day and ensuring all areas are properly closed down after service.