Cook

Job Overview

The Cook position involves assisting the Senior/Unit Catering Supervisor with all meal preparation and cooking tasks. The role requires team collaboration to ensure efficient and hygienic food service, customer satisfaction, and promotion of sales within the catering unit.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform skilled cooking tasks across various meal types, including menu preparation, portion control, special dietary meal provision, and function catering assistance.
• Support administrative tasks such as record keeping and hygiene, health and safety monitoring, including temperature recordings.
• Help in managing and supervising kitchen staff jointly with supervisors.
• Oversee operational control of service points and transported meals.
• Assist in meal planning, stock-taking, organizing stores and refrigerators, and receiving deliveries.
• Manage general kitchen operations during the supervisor's absence.
• Train staff and carry out cash handling duties when needed.
• Perform general kitchen duties like washing dishes, setting up and clearing equipment and tables, and cleaning the kitchen and dining areas.
• Promote the catering service to parents, principals, and customers to improve uptake.
• Secure premises as required and perform any delegated service-related tasks.

Compliance and General Conditions

• Carry out duties in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, codes of practice, and school values.
• Perform administrative duties as necessary.
• Undertake tasks within the employee's competence and grade.
• Maintain positive relations and equality of opportunity according to Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998).

Essential Criteria

• Possess either an NVQ Level 2 in food preparation and cooking, City & Guilds 706-1 & 706-2, or an equivalent/higher qualification, or have at least two years’ experience in food preparation and cooking within a catering environment.
• Knowledge of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles.
• Willingness to participate in job-related training.

Skills and Personal Attributes

• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage with customers.
• Organizational and planning capabilities to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Motivated to deliver excellent food quality and customer service.

Values and Interview Criteria

Candidates should demonstrate alignment with the Education Authority's ethos and values, showcasing professional experience and approach during the selection process.

Additional Information

Applicants who work directly with children will require an Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background, with associated costs to be borne by the candidate. The position promotes equal opportunity employment.