Temporary Cook – Derry/Londonderry Area

MPA Recruitment is currently recruiting a dedicated and experienced Temporary Cook on behalf of our clients, to work across a range of nursing homes and Housing with Care settings throughout the Derry/Londonderry area.

This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled catering professional who is passionate about delivering high-quality meals and making a positive impact on the lives of residents. The successful candidate will play a key role in managing kitchen operations, maintaining the highest food safety standards, and ensuring residents receive nutritious and enjoyable meals tailored to their individual needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operation of the kitchen within the scheme.
• Plan, prepare, and provide nutritious meals for up to 40 residents, taking into account individual dietary and nutritional requirements.
• Maintain and monitor all food safety, HACCP, and allergen management records.
• Liaise directly with Environmental Health Officers and RQIA during inspections.
• Order and manage catering and cleaning supplies, ensuring effective stock control and budget management.
• Ensure compliance with all Health & Safety, Environmental Health, and food hygiene regulations.
• Prepare and serve modified diets and fluids in accordance with the IDDSI Framework.
• Demonstrate an understanding of dysphagia and associated risks.
• Oversee dining room operations during mealtimes.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is maintained and any faults are reported promptly.
• Utilise IT systems for menu planning, stock ordering, and record management.

Essential Criteria

Qualifications

• QCF/NVQ Level 2 in Catering (or equivalent qualification)

OR

• A minimum of 1 year's experience working as a professional cook if you do not hold the above qualification.

Experience & Skills

• At least 6 months' experience working as a professional cook (with relevant qualification).
• Experience managing the daily operation of a professional kitchen.
• Knowledge of Environmental Health standards and food safety regulations.
• Experience supporting specialised dietary and nutritional needs, including fortified diets and the IDDSI Framework.
• Experience in stock control and budget management.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workloads effectively.
• Ability to supervise, motivate, and support staff.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Additional Requirements

• An Enhanced Access NI Disclosure will be required for this post.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay rates
• Weekly pay every Friday
• Flexible working patterns – choose when, where, and how often you work
• Excellent work-life balance
• Holiday pay
• Pension scheme
• Dedicated 24/7 support from our experienced recruitment team

If you are an experienced cook looking for flexible work within a rewarding care environment, we would love to hear from you.