Kitchen Assistant

Job Advert

**Kitchen Assistant**

**The Company**

Birchgrove is an innovative build-to-rent operator, exclusively for the over 65s. We bring purpose to our work and make a meaningful difference to the lives of our colleagues and our customers. We put our colleagues and residents at the heart of everything that we do and love to make a difference.

**The Role**

We are seeking a Kitchen Assistant to join our friendly team to support the smooth operation of the kitchen by assisting with food preparation, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring the kitchen equipment and utensils are ready for use. This role plays a crucial part in supporting the chefs to deliver high quality food service in a safe and efficient manner.

**The Person**

**Qualifications**:

- Previous experience in a kitchen or food preparation environment is preferred
- Basic understanding of food safety and hygiene practices
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining cleanliness
- Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

**Skills**:

- Warm and friendly, passionate about enhancing the lives of our residents
- Basic cooking and food preparation skills
- Ability to follow instructions and work under supervision

**Working Conditions**:

- This role requires working in a busy kitchen environment, which may involve exposure to heat, steam, and kitchen equipment.
- The position may require lifting and carrying heavy items, such as pots, pans, and food supplies.
- Kitchen Assistants are expected to maintain high standards of personal hygiene and follow all safety procedures.
- Flexibility to work varying shifts, including weekends

**Key Responsibilities**

**Food Preparation**
- Assist with basic food preparation tasks such as washing, peeling, chopping, and slicing ingredients.
- Prepare simple dishes such as salads, sandwiches, and side items under the direction of the chef.
- Assist in portioning and plating food items as needed.

**Kitchen Cleanliness and Maintenance**:

- Ensure that the kitchen, including workstations, equipment, and utensils, is kept clean and organised at all times.
- Wash dishes, pots, pans, and other kitchen tools and equipment using appropriate cleaning methods.
- Sweep, mop, and sanitise kitchen floors, counters, and surfaces to maintain hygiene standards..

**Stock Management**:

- Assist with the receipt and storage of deliveries, ensuring items are stored in their designated areas promptly.
- Monitor stock levels of ingredients and supplies, and report shortages or quality issues to the kitchen manager.
- Rotate stock to minimise waste and ensure the freshness of ingredients.

**Health and Safety Compliance**:

- Adhere to all health, safety, and hygiene standards, including the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Report any hazards, maintenance needs, or accidents to the supervisor immediately.
- Follow proper food handling and storage procedures to prevent contamination.

**Support Kitchen Operations**:

- Assist with the setup and breakdown of kitchen stations and equipment.
- Help with the preparation and setup for catering, events, or special functions as needed.
- Work as part of a team to ensure efficient kitchen operations and timely food service.

**Customer Service**:

- Support front-of-house staff with residents orders or special requests as needed.
- Maintain a friendly and professional demeanor, especially when interacting with residents or staff.

**Why Work for us**

Opportunity for growth: We are committed to fostering professional development and providing opportunities for growth investing in our employee’s career progression.
- Birchgrove is dedicated to making a positive impact on our residents and the community. As part of our team, you will have the opportunity to work on projects that have a real and meaningful impact.
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Complimentary lunch cooked by our professional Chefs
- Health Care Cash Back scheme
- Electric Car Scheme
- We believe in the power of diversity and inclusion. We are committed to an inclusive workplace where individuals from all backgrounds and experiences are welcome and valued.
- Birchgrove is known as the leading company in its field within the UK. Joining our team means being part of a reputable and respected organisation.