Assistant Cook
We do not offer sponsorship for this role - if you require sponsorship your application will automatically be declined. Please consider this carefully before applying - no exceptions.
For this role you must be fully flexible Monday to Sunday. You will be allocated shifts on a rotational basis.
You will not be able to provide us with your availability and we cannot allocate you preferred shifts. Please consider this carefully before applying.
The Home
Blair House Care Home is a registered Nursing Home located on the outskirts of Newtownards, overlooked by Scrabo Tower. It is close to the town centre with different transport options available. Blair House Care Home has a total of 85 beds across 4 units including Residential Dementia, Nursing Dementia, Frail and Elderly Nursing, and a newly opened Mental Health Unit. The team in Blair House Care Home are well experienced in their fields and provide high quality care to all of our residents.
The Role - 28.5 hours per week, temporary ongoing
The food our residents eat plays a key part in the care we offer and as a result, the role of Assistant Cook is essential in our mission to provide excellent care. The Assistant Cook works closely with the Chef, supporting with menu planning, meal preparation, kitchen management and ensuring compliance with the necessary regulatory standards.
The Assistant Cook has a meaningful impact on the health and wellbeing of our residents through the provision of high-quality, person-centred dining experiences.
This role is about a lot more than preparing meals, this role is essential in ensuring the dietary needs of our residents are met in addition to contributing to a safe and positive working environment for the team.
About the role
Main Responsibilities
Assist with supporting the kitchen team, providing the necessary training, encouraging development, motivation and best practice.
Complete all aspects of food preparation, cooking and presentation, ensuring that meals are prepared to the highest standards in terms of taste, quality and hygiene.
Take a leadership position in the absence of the Chef.
Support the Chef with the management of kitchen operations including inventory management, stock control, ordering and maintaining the good condition of all kitchen equipment.
Work with the Chef to plan and develop well-balanced, nutritious menus that meet the dietary needs, preferences and cultural requirements of our residents.
Maintain accurate and up to date records including assisting with regular audits, including food storage and temperatures, cleaning schedules and hygiene practices.
Ensure compliance with Food Safety regulations, HACCP guidelines and Health and Safety regulations.
Work with the Chef, kitchen and care teams to adapt to the changing needs of residents, including accommodating any side effects of medication that may be experienced.
Foster a positive dining experience for residents, engaging with the wider team to gather feedback, continuously improving the quality of our food service.
Stay informed about trends, best practice and innovations in kitchen management.
The Benefits
Paid annual leave
The chance to be part of a growing healthcare company
4 weekly pay
Continuous professional development and training
Values led culture
Overtime available at an enhanced rate
Opportunities for progression
Pension plan (if applicable)
Attractive hourly rate
Access NI fee paid for
Uniforms and PPE provided
Monthly incentives and recognition awards
Free parking
Healthcare Ireland are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.
What you will need
Required criteria
- Right to Work in the UK
- Minimum 1 years’ experience working as an Assistant Cook or similar role in a food preparation/ kitchen setting.
- Hold a basic Food Safety and Hygiene certificate.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Basic understanding of the dietary needs, nutritional and cultural requirements of elderly people.
- The ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
- Have basic knowledge of HACCP, COSHH and Health and Safety.
Desired criteria
- Experience gained in a care home or similar healthcare environment desirable.
- NVQ Level 2 in a relevant subject is desirable.
Healthcare Ireland Group
Healthcare Ireland provides care services in an environment where individuality is emphasised and the privacy and dignity of all our residents is recognised. We currently have over 1,800 employees throughout our 25 Homes. We are incredibly proud of not only the work our employees do, but the quality of care we are able to offer as result of their commitment.
We started Healthcare Ireland Group in July 2015 with the opening of Bradley Manor Care Home. Our categories of care include general and dementia nursing, dementia residential, mental health, physical disability and learning disability.
We are passionate about providing the highest standards of care in safe, positive and flexible environments, which enable each person who uses our services to achieve their potential. We are committed to providing each employee with a fulfilling working environment, encouraging personal and professional development. We aim to be a first class, independent organisation delivering innovative, collaborative and value for money services. Our ultimate purpose is to work with the people who use our services and their families and friends, to enable them to take control of their lives.
We’re always on the look out for people who care, whether that’s caring for our residents, or in one of our roles like laundry, kitchen, administration or maintenance. Our passionate, ever-growing team means that you’ll be working with people who pride themselves on the work they do. Each of our Homes and our Head Office work together to achieve something excellent that truly makes a difference in people’s lives. Caring for our residents is at the heart of all we do, and we’d love to have you join the team.
Our benefits
Healthcare Ireland Group is not just a workplace; it's a community where your work has a purpose, and your contributions are valued. If you're passionate about making a difference and are seeking a rewarding career in healthcare, we welcome you to explore opportunities with us and help continue our legacy of excellence in care .
Retirement plan and/or pension
Employee development programs
Free parking
Competitive salary
Social Opportunities
Employee Recognition Scheme
Culture of recognition
On the job learning
Assistant Cook
Healthcare Ireland provides care services in an environment where individuality is emphasised and the privacy and dignity of all our residents is recognised. We currently have over 1,800 employees throughout our 25 Homes. We are incredibly proud of not only the work our employees do, but the quality of care we are able to offer as result of their commitment.
We started Healthcare Ireland Group in July 2015 with the opening of Bradley Manor Care Home. Our categories of care include general and dementia nursing, dementia residential, mental health, physical disability and learning disability.