1 month contract with a Local Authority 

Job Title

Head of Kitchen (Chef)

Location

Felixstowe, IP11 9HH

Job Purpose

To lead the day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring the efficient preparation and delivery of high-quality, nutritious hot and cold meals. The role is responsible for maintaining food safety standards, managing stock and orders, and ensuring smooth service for approximately 160 meals daily.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare and cook hot meals for approximately 110 servings daily while overseeing the preparation of around 50 cold packed lunches. Plan, organise, and manage kitchen operations to ensure timely and efficient meal service. Order food supplies weekly, ensuring cost control and availability of ingredients. Carry out monthly stocktakers and maintain accurate inventory records.

Supervise and work alongside the Food Service Assistant, providing guidance where required while maintaining overall responsibility for kitchen output. Ensure high standards of food hygiene, health and safety, and cleanliness are consistently met. Comply with all food safety regulations and company policies.

Monitor portion control, reduce waste, and maintain budget efficiency. Ensure all meals meet quality and presentation standards. Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment within the kitchen.

Experience

Previous experience working as a Chef or Head of Kitchen in a high-volume catering environment is essential. Experience managing kitchen operations, including ordering and stock control, is required. Experience working in a school, contract catering, or similar setting is desirable.

Qualifications

Valid Food Safety Certificate is required. Enhanced DBS check is mandatory. Relevant catering or professional cookery qualification is desirable. Strong knowledge of food hygiene regulations and kitchen management practices. Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and lead a small team.

Additional Information

Working hours are Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 2:00pm, totalling 32.5 hours per week. Pay rate is £13.77 per hour.

Enhanced DBS and food safety certificate required.

Location: Felixstowe, IP119HH

We work on bi weekly payment schedule