Hostel Chef

Location: Brighton & Hove
Pay Rate: £19.32 per hour
Contract Type: Ad-hoc shifts (holiday, sickness, and short-notice cover)

Guidant Global is recruiting a Hostel Chef on behalf of Brighton & Hove City Council to provide nutritious meals for up to 24 residents in a homeless hostel setting.
The hostel offers short-term accommodation to local, single homeless individuals with complex needs, including those with substance use challenges and mental health issues. The service supports residents in preparing for independent living by providing a safe space, training, and opportunities for positive change.

About the Role

Prepare and serve a hot lunch and a cold evening meal for up to 24 residents.
Prepare soups and cakes as part of the menu.
Work independently in the kitchen-no KP or CA support.
Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen cleanliness.
Collaborate with hostel staff and attend briefings when required.
Promote sustainability and follow safeguarding processes.
This role is ideal for someone with a permanent job looking to pick up extra hours.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare nutritionally balanced meals, catering for allergies and dietary needs.
Portion control and pre-plating to ensure all residents receive a meal.
Complete food labelling, dating, and hygiene documentation.
Maintain kitchen equipment and report faults promptly.
Ensure compliance with BHCC policies, EHO guidelines, and Food Safety standards.
Record temperatures, cleaning schedules, and meal logs daily.
Gather feedback from residents and adapt menus where appropriate.

Essential Requirements

Experience: Minimum 6 months cooking in a professional or community kitchen, catering for up to 30 people.
Food Safety: Valid Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
Compliance: Enhanced DBS check.
Strong organisational and time management skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and reliably.
Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Desirable

Experience working with vulnerable adults or those experiencing food insecurity.
Adult safeguarding training (or willingness to complete).
NVQ Level 2 in Food Safety.
Understanding of challenging behaviours and maintaining professional boundaries.

Skills & Competencies

Clear communicator and active listener.
Ability to manage stress and work reflectively.
Compassionate and optimistic approach.
Strong problem-solving and mediation skills.
Ready to serve up something great?
Apply now by sending your CV.

Guidant, Carbon60, Lorien & SRG - The Impellam Group Portfolio are acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy