Relief Assistant Chef / Cook, Belfast

Job Description

Location: Our Ladys Home, 68 Ard Na Va Road

Can you make a real difference in the lives of others? At Macklin Care Homes, you will work as part of an award‑winning team valued for your contributions, with opportunities for career development and a friendly, rewarding work environment.

Our residents are at the heart of our homes; we are inspired not only by their stories and experiences of years past but also by the knowledge that we are making a real difference in their lives.

Our Ladys Care Home

Based in Belfast, we are recruiting for an experienced Assistant Chef/Cook on a relief basis. This role offers the perfect opportunity to combine your passion for cooking with a work‑life balance. You will prepare nutritious, delicious meals for residents, tailored to their dietary needs, while enjoying a friendly and supportive environment.

About The Role Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and cook meals for residents, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
• Cater to individual dietary requirements, including allergens and health‑related restrictions.
• Create a variety of well‑balanced, appealing, and nutritious meals.
• Develop weekly or monthly menus in collaboration with residents and management, ensuring variety and nutritional value.
• Oversee daily operations within the kitchen, ensuring smooth workflow and timely meal service.
• Maintain stock control, including ordering, receiving, and proper storage of food supplies.
• Minimise food waste and manage budgets effectively.
• Adhere to food safety standards, including proper food handling, preparation, and storage.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in all areas of the kitchen, including equipment and utensils.
• Engage with residents to gather feedback and understand their preferences.
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive dining experience for residents.

Ideal Candidate

• Passion for cooking and providing excellent dining experiences.
• Ability to manage time and prioritise tasks effectively in a fast‑paced setting.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of food quality and safety.

Company Benefits

• Collaborating with an award‑winning team with family values.
• Enjoy a fully paid induction programme to help you transition smoothly into your role.
• Access to a wide variety of training opportunities to support professional growth.
• Career development opportunities.
• Flexibility of shifts.
• Access to the Employee Assistance Programme for mental health and well‑being support.
• Discounted rates at Malone Hotel, Belfast.
• Health and well‑being initiatives, including team‑building initiatives.
• Free car parking and uniform (subject to conditions).
• Incentives for employee referrals (subject to conditions).
• T&Cs will apply.

Ensure your CV is up to date, as this is required for the interview process.

Sponsorship for this role is not offered. Applications requiring sponsorship will not be considered.

Interviews may take place before the job advertisement closes. Submit your application promptly, as the role may close early if a suitable candidate is appointed. In addition, we also reserve the right to enhance the criteria at the shortlisting stage.

An Enhanced Access NI Check will be required for this post. The company has policies regarding the recruitment of ex‑offenders and the secure handling, use, storage, and retention of disclosure information, as required by the Access NI Code of Practice.

Macklin Care Homes is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Required Criteria

• Minimum three years experience in a similar role.
• Food Hygiene & COSHH training.
• Good General Health (medically fit).

Desired Criteria

• Previous management experience.

Closing Date: Tuesday 30th June 2026

Contract Type: Full time

Salary: £13.63 Hourly

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