Second Cook

Do you enjoy cooking wholesome, home-style meals and want a role where your work genuinely matters every single day? Hatzfeld Care is looking for a dedicated and compassionate Second Cook to support our kitchen team at Laughton Croft, our residential mental health home.

At Hatzfeld, we provide person-centred residential care for adults living with a variety of needs including Asperger’s, schizophrenia, eating disorders, dementia, and age-related conditions. Mealtimes play a hugely important role in our residents’ wellbeing, comfort, and daily routine — and our kitchen team is at the heart of that experience.

As a Second Cook, you’ll work closely with the lead cook to help prepare nutritious, balanced meals while maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming kitchen environment. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys teamwork, takes pride in quality food preparation, and wants to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

Your Role Will Include

• Assisting with the preparation and cooking of fresh, nutritious meals for residents
• Supporting residents’ dietary needs, preferences, and care plans
• Helping maintain high standards of kitchen cleanliness and food hygiene
• Assisting with menu ideas and meal preparation for varied tastes and dietary requirements
• Ensuring food is stored correctly and used within required dates
• Supporting smooth kitchen operations and mealtime service
• Confidently working independently when required while remaining part of a supportive care team

• Previous kitchen or catering experience preferred
• A positive, reliable, and team-focused attitude
• Understanding of food hygiene and safe food handling practices
• Experience working towards high food hygiene standards is desirable
• Food Hygiene certification is beneficial but not essential
• Ability to work efficiently in a busy kitchen environment
• A caring nature and understanding of the importance of nutrition in care settings
• Strong knowledge of kitchen equipment and cooking procedures
• Ability to lone-work

• £12.88 per hour
• 30 hours per week
• Mileage paid over 5 miles (up to 50 miles per day)
• Company pension scheme
• Life insurance
• Meals provided during shifts
• 24/7 confidential counselling and wellbeing support
• Monthly staff bonus scheme
• Refer-a-friend bonus of up to £250
• Free onsite parking
• A friendly and supportive working environment with opportunities to grow
• Please note: Applicants must currently live in the UK. Sponsorship is not available for this role.