Kitchen Assistant

Job Title: Kitchen Porter/Assistant

Report to: Kitchen Supervisor

Hours: Part Time on a Flexible Basis

Accountable to: Registered Manager /Catering Manager

Kitchen Porter Job Purpose:

To support the catering team in preparing, cooking, and serving nutritious meals that meet the specific dietary requirements and preferences of care home residents, ensuring high standards of food safety, hygiene, and quality.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Food Preparation and Cooking

• Assist in preparing meals according to established recipes and dietary guidelines

• Follow specialised dietary requirements for residents (e.g., soft diets, texture-modified meals, allergen-free options)

• Maintain accurate records of meal preparation and resident dietary needs

• Assist in portion control and meal presentation

2. Kitchen Hygiene and Safety

• Maintain strict adherence to food safety and hygiene regulations

• Clean and sanitise kitchen equipment, work surfaces, and utensils

• Follow HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) principles

• Ensure proper food storage and stock rotation

• Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

3. Stock Management

• Assist in stock taking and inventory management

• Help with ordering and receiving food supplies

• Report low stock levels to the kitchen supervisor

• Manage food waste effectively and sustainably

4. Resident Interaction

• Engage positively with residents during meal times

• Assist residents with special feeding requirements, if needed

• Demonstrate patience, empathy, and respect

5. Team Collaboration

• Work effectively with kitchen staff, care workers, and nursing team

• Participate in team meetings and training sessions

• Cover shifts and support colleagues as required This is not an exhaustive list of duties and the post holder may be required to undertake other duties, as may be required, to meet the needs of the service.

Person Specification:

Skills and Attributes:

1. Personal Qualities

• Compassionate and patient

• Calm under pressure

• Excellent interpersonal skills

• Ability to work in a team

• Adaptable and flexible

2. Communication

• Clear and effective verbal communication

• Good listening skills

• Ability to follow instructions precisely

• Basic written communication for record-keeping

3. Technical Skills

• Basic cooking skills

• Understanding of food safety principles

• Ability to use kitchen equipment safely

• Basic numeracy for portion control and stock management

4. Professional Attributes

• Punctual and reliable

• Commitment to quality and resident care

• Willingness to learn and develop skills

• Positive attitude • Respect for diversity and individual needs Physical and Environmental Requirements:

• Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment

• Comfortable working in temperatures varying from cold storage to hot cooking areas

• Must wear provided protective clothing

• Able to stand for long periods

• Manual dexterity for food preparation

Essential Criteria:

• Basic food hygiene certification (or willingness to obtain)

• Physical ability to stand for extended periods

• Excellent personal hygiene

• Have previous experience working within a similar role

• Have a passion for and genuine interest in food

• Have a mature and pleasant manner for dealing with clients and team members

• Be a team player

• Be able to work under pressure in a busy kitchen

• Have good knowledge of HACCP procedures and regulations

Desirable Qualifications/Experience:

• Level 2 Award in Food Safety / Food Hygiene Certificate.

• Previous experience in care home or healthcare catering

• Additional nutrition or dietary requirements training

• First aid certification • Manual handling, infection control, or COSHH training.

Working Conditions:

• Shift work may be required (morning, afternoon, evening shifts)

• Weekend and bank holiday work might be necessary Additional Information This role involves regular contact with vulnerable adults; therefore, an Enhanced AccessNI Disclosure check will be required before employment can commence.