Assistant Chef Manager

Mellors Catering Services are currently recruiting for a:

Assistant Chef Manager

Mellors Catering Services – Fuelling Minds and Nourishing Futures

Our Mission is: Top quality service and food create happy and successful people

Job Details: Assistant Chef Manager

Environment: Education Sector

Hours: 38 per week

Hourly Rate: £16.00

Contract: Permanent (Term Time only- 38 working weeks / 4.59 holiday weeks)

Region: Doncaster

Contract Start Date: ASAP

Accountable To: Exec Chef Manager

Required to wear uniform as per company guidelines which will be provided.

School Assistant Chef Manager oversees the daily operation of the school's kitchen and catering services, ensuring the delivery of healthy, balanced, and appealing meals for students and staff. This role requires a strong combination of culinary skill, leadership, and operational management to provide high-quality food that supports student wellbeing and complies with school food standards and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities:Menu Development & Food Preparation

• Plan and deliver a diverse, nutritious, and appealing menu suitable for secondary school students.
• Ensure all meals meet School Food Standards and cater to dietary, allergen, and cultural requirements.
• Prepare and cook meals from scratch using fresh, locally sourced ingredients where possible.
• Introduce creative meal options and themed days to encourage healthy eating habits among teenagers.
• Maintain consistency in portion sizes, presentation, and quality across all service periods.

Operational & Kitchen Management

• Manage the day-to-day running of the kitchen, ensuring smooth and efficient service during breakfast, break, and lunch.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and organization throughout all food preparation and storage areas.
• Conduct regular temperature checks and record keeping in line with HACCP and food safety legislation.
• Oversee maintenance of kitchen equipment and report any faults or repairs promptly.

Budgeting & Stock Control

• Work within an agreed catering budget, controlling food, labor, and supply costs effectively.
• Carry out monthly stock checks and order supplies from approved suppliers.
• Implement waste-reduction strategies and portion control to maximize cost efficiency.

Team Leadership & Staff Development

• Lead, train, and motivate kitchen and catering staff to maintain high standards of food production and service.
• Organize staff rotas, ensuring adequate cover.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide feedback or training where necessary.
• Promote teamwork and a positive working environment that supports professional growth.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with all health and safety, food hygiene, and allergen management regulations.
• Maintain accurate records for audits, inspections, and local authority visits.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and enforce safe working practices.
• Keep all relevant training and certifications up to date.

Pupil & School Engagement

• Work closely with school leadership to align the catering offer with school values and wellbeing initiatives.
• Engage with students through surveys or feedback sessions to understand their preferences.
• Support school events such as open evenings, awards ceremonies, and special theme days.
• Promote healthy eating and positive food culture throughout the school community.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Qualification in Professional Cookery, Catering, or Hospitality.
• Previous experience in a catering environment
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Competent in budgeting, stock management, and record keeping.
• Position Subject to an Enhanced DBS

Work Environment:

• Based in a busy secondary school kitchen environment.
• Monday to Friday during term time, with occasional extra hours for events or functions.

Reports To:

• Exec Chef Manager

Supervises:

• Catering Assistants / Cooks

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £14.50 per hour

Experience:

• Catering: 5 years (required)
• Catering management: 2 years (preferred)

Work Location: In person