To plan, prepare, and deliver nutritious, well-balanced meals tailored to the needs of elderly service users, including those with specific dietary requirements. The role ensures high standards of food hygiene, safety, and presentation, while creating a welcoming mealtime experience that enhances the wellbeing of service users. The service runs 3 days a week.Key ResponsibilitiesMeal Preparation & ServicePlan and cook daily meals, snacks, and refreshments for elderly clients.Adapt menus to suit individual dietary needs (e.g. diabetic, low-salt, soft diets, vegetarian).Ensure meals are appealing, nutritious, and in line with health and dietary guidelines.Serve meals in a manner that promotes dignity and enjoyment.Menu & Nutrition ManagementDevelop seasonal and varied menus in consultation with staff, service users, and dietitians (if applicable).Monitor portion sizes and minimise food waste.Kitchen & Hygiene ManagementMaintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment.Ensure compliance with food hygiene, safety, and health regulations.Carry out daily checks, cleaning schedules, and record-keeping (e.g. HACCP).Monitor stock levels, order supplies, and manage food budgets efficiently.Teamwork & CommunicationWork closely with care staff to understand individual needs of service users.Engage with service users to receive feedback on meals.Train and supervise kitchen assistants/volunteers if required.Person SpecificationQualificationsQQI Level 4 in Professional Cookery, Catering, or equivalent.Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or higher essential).Allergen awareness training desirable.ExperiencePrevious experience working as a chef/cook, ideally in a care, hospital, school, or similar setting.Experience catering for special diets and understanding of elderly nutritional needs.Knowledge & SkillsStrong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and allergen management.Ability to create balanced, cost-effective menus.Excellent organisational and time-management skills.Ability to adapt meals for texture-modified or medically required diets.Personal QualitiesCompassionate and patient, with respect for older people.Flexible and adaptable to changing needs.Team player with good communication skills.Commitment to high standards of care and service.Working ConditionsHours 18 hours per week, service runs Monday, Wednesday and Friday each week.Kitchen-based role with regular interaction with elderly service users.Some lifting, standing, and physical activity required.Job Types: Part-time, PermanentPay: €350.00-€380.00 per weekExpected hours: 18 per weekBenefits:On-site parkingWork Location: In person