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 Responsibilities
Meal Preparation & Service
* Plan 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 Management
* Develop seasonal and varied menus in consultation with staff, service users, and dietitians (if applicable).
* Monitor portion sizes and minimise food waste.
Kitchen & Hygiene Management
* Maintain 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 & Communication
* Work 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 Specification
Qualifications
* QQI Level 4 in Professional Cookery, Catering, or equivalent.
* Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or higher essential).
* Allergen awareness training desirable.
Experience
* Previous 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 & Skills
* Strong 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 Qualities
* Compassionate 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 Conditions
* Hours 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, Permanent
Pay: €350.00-€380.00 per week
Expected hours: 18 per week
Benefits:
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person