Location: Ilkley
Rate: £19.61 per hour (temporary)
Hours: Variable shifts to cover short-term staffing needs
Venue: Care Home

**Enhanced DBS Essential

**Starts week commencing 9th March ongoing

Company Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate

• Flexible shift patterns

• Meals while on duty

• Supportive management and onsite training

• Free on-site parking (where available)

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced, reliable Temp Head Chef to join a friendly care home team in Ilkley on a temporary basis. This role is ideal for a skilled chef who enjoys making a positive difference in residents’ daily lives by delivering nutritious, well-presented meals that meet dietary and clinical requirements.

You will work with established menus and guidance from the home’s management and care staff, while having the autonomy to ensure high standards of food quality, portioning, and presentation. This role requires adaptability, strong communication with care teams, and a compassionate approach to preparing meals for older people and those with specific dietary needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare balanced, appetizing meals in line with the care home’s menu plans and nutritional guidelines

• Cater for special diets, textures (e.g., pureed, minced), allergies, and cultural preferences

• Lead the kitchen during shifts, supervising kitchen assistants and any agency staff

• Maintain high standards of food hygiene and safety, ensuring compliance with all regulations

• Manage portion control, stock rotation, and basic food cost awareness

• Ensure meals are served on time and liaise closely with care staff regarding resident needs

• Keep accurate kitchen records and support audits and inspections

Who We’re Looking For

• Previous experience in a Head Chef, Senior Cook, or similar role, ideally within a care home, healthcare, or hospitality setting

• Knowledge of special diets and experience preparing and adapting meals for residents with varying dietary requirements

• Good leadership skills with a calm, respectful approach to managing a small kitchen team

• Strong organizational skills, reliable timekeeping, and attention to detail

• Food hygiene qualification (e.g., Level 2 or above) and willingness to maintain training

• Enhanced DBS (or willing to apply) and references available on request

Why Apply?

• Temporary role with regular shifts and clear hours

• Rewarding environment focused on resident wellbeing

• Opportunity to work with a supportive, caring team

• Immediate starts available subject to checks

About Chefs for Chefs

Chefs for Chefs are committed to promoting equal opportunities regardless of age, gender, religion, belief, race, sexuality or disability. We operate as both an employment agency and an employment business. You can find a wide selection of vacancies on our website.