Second Chef - Care Home

Job Advertisement: Second Chef (Permanent - Part-Time)

Position Overview

• Role: Second Chef - Care Home (Permanent)

• Location: Appletree Grange Care Home, Durham Road, Birtley, Durham, DH3 2BH

• Pay Rate: £13.59 per hour

• Contract Type: Permanent, Part-Time

• Hours: 26.00 hours per week (Working alternate weekends)

• Shift: Days

• Closing Date: 19 September 2026

About the Role

Are you a qualified chef looking for a better work-life balance without the long weeks and split shifts of traditional hospitality, while making a real, meaningful difference?

Working as a permanent Second Chef through our supportive bridge staffing agency on behalf of Barchester Healthcare, you will assist the Head Chef in creating nutritious, flavoursome, and well-balanced menus using fresh, seasonal produce. You will have the opportunity to engage directly with residents to tailor person-centred dining experiences, step up to manage the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence, and be part of an award-winning, highly rated healthcare environment!

Key Responsibilities (What You'll Do)

• Manage the kitchen effectively in the Head Chef’s absence.

• Assist the Head Chef in menu development, tailoring meals around residents' personal preferences and nutritional needs.

• Work with fresh, seasonal produce to deliver wholesome, high-quality dishes.

• Help maintain budgets, complete regular audits, and manage stock control.

• Create a warm, efficient, and fun dining environment during day shifts.

Candidate Requirements (What You'll Need)

• A personable, warm approach with a genuine passion for resident wellbeing.

• City & Guilds, NVQ/SVQ, or equivalent culinary qualifications.

• A solid understanding of nutrition and experience working with fresh, seasonal food.

• Confidence engaging with residents to build appetising menus.

• A good understanding of HACCP guidelines.

Rewards & Benefits Package

• Competitive Pay: Excellent hourly rate of £13.59 for 26 hours per week.

• Excellence Bonus: Financial rewards of up to £500* for Good or Outstanding CQC inspections.

• Perks & Referrals: 'Refer a Friend' scheme earning up to £500* per referral, plus extensive retail and leisure discounts.

• Wellbeing Support: Free access to medical specialists for second opinions, free confidential counselling, and legal services.

• Financial & Extra Perks: Tax code review service and optional participation in the monthly staff lottery.