Job Advertisement: Second Chef (Permanent - Part-Time)

Position Overview

Role: Second Chef - Care Home (Permanent)
Location: Appletree Grange Care Home, Durham Road, Birtley, Durham, DH3 2BH
Pay Rate: £13.59 per hour
Contract Type: Permanent, Part-Time
Hours: 26.00 hours per week (Working alternate weekends)
Shift: Days
Closing Date: 19 September 2026

About the Role

Are you a qualified chef looking for a better work-life balance without the long weeks and split shifts of traditional hospitality, while making a real, meaningful difference?

Working as a permanent Second Chef through our supportive bridge staffing agency on behalf of Barchester Healthcare, you will assist the Head Chef in creating nutritious, flavoursome, and well-balanced menus using fresh, seasonal produce. You will have the opportunity to engage directly with residents to tailor person-centred dining experiences, step up to manage the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence, and be part of an award-winning, highly rated healthcare environment!

Key Responsibilities (What You'll Do)

Manage the kitchen effectively in the Head Chef’s absence.
Assist the Head Chef in menu development, tailoring meals around residents' personal preferences and nutritional needs.
Work with fresh, seasonal produce to deliver wholesome, high-quality dishes.
Help maintain budgets, complete regular audits, and manage stock control.
Create a warm, efficient, and fun dining environment during day shifts.

Candidate Requirements (What You'll Need)

A personable, warm approach with a genuine passion for resident wellbeing.
City & Guilds, NVQ/SVQ, or equivalent culinary qualifications.
A solid understanding of nutrition and experience working with fresh, seasonal food.
Confidence engaging with residents to build appetising menus.
A good understanding of HACCP guidelines.

Rewards & Benefits Package

Competitive Pay: Excellent hourly rate of £13.59 for 26 hours per week.
Excellence Bonus: Financial rewards of up to £500* for Good or Outstanding CQC inspections.
Perks & Referrals: 'Refer a Friend' scheme earning up to £500* per referral, plus extensive retail and leisure discounts.
Wellbeing Support: Free access to medical specialists for second opinions, free confidential counselling, and legal services.
Financial & Extra Perks: Tax code review service and optional participation in the monthly staff lottery.