Casual Bank Cook - Kitchen and Catering Support

Role Overview

We are looking for a reliable and enthusiastic Casual Cook to support the preparation, cooking and serving of meals as required. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a busy kitchen environment, takes pride in preparing good-quality food and can work flexibly to cover shifts, events, staff absence or periods of increased demand.

This is a bank position. The likelihood of being asked to work a session is very unpredictable and there is therefore no guarantee of regular employment.

Currently, our provision operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook 2-course hot meals, including a vegetarian option for 60 people to the required standard.
• Follow recipes, portion guidance and dietary instructions accurately.
• Source ingredients from a local supermarket at the start of the session.
• Prepare ingredients, including washing, chopping, weighing and storing food correctly.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and kitchen safety at all times.
• Ensure food is stored, labelled, rotated and served in line with food safety requirements.
• Support stock control by monitoring ingredients and reporting shortages or concerns.
• Clean kitchen surfaces, equipment, utensils and food preparation areas during and after shifts.
• Assist with setting up and clearing down service areas when required.
• Work cooperatively with colleagues, and volunteers
• Report equipment faults, safety concerns or quality issues promptly.

Skills and Experience

• Previous cooking, catering or kitchen experience is essential.
• Good knowledge of food preparation, kitchen hygiene and safe food handling.
• A Food Hygiene or Food Safety certificate is desirable, although training may be provided.
• Ability to follow instructions, recipes and agreed kitchen procedures.
• Good organisation skills and the ability to work efficiently during busy periods.
• Positive attitude, reliability and willingness to work as part of a team.
• Awareness of allergens, dietary requirements and cross-contamination risks.
• Ability to remain calm, professional and focused under pressure.

Working Arrangements

This is a casual position, with hours offered according to operational need. Shifts will include short notice cover. The regularity of work is extremely unpredictable and you will be called in when the regular cooks are either unwell or on holiday. As much notice as possible will be given but it may be less than 24 hours in an emergency. The successful candidate should be flexible, punctual and able to work safely in a physically active kitchen role that may involve standing for long periods, lifting light supplies and working in warm conditions.

Personal Qualities

• Recognise the needs of the people we serve as outlined in www.marah.org.uk
• Dependable and punctual.
• Friendly, respectful and professional.
• Practical, hands-on and willing to help where needed.
• Committed to preparing food safely and to a high standard.
• Able to communicate clearly with colleagues and supervisors.

Support Offered:

• A team of volunteers to assist with preparation during your shifts
• Opportunities to shadow existing cooks prior to working as the sole cook
• Reporting to the Food Services Manager

How to Apply

To apply, please email by clicking on Apply Now.

Given the nature of this employment, it is advisable to speak to us for a chat to clarify the details prior to making an application form. References will be requested as part of the recruitment process.