Cook(UK visa sponsorship available)
Job Description
Job Summary
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Cook to join the Hotel Services Team at Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust. The successful candidate will contribute to delivering high-quality catering services within our eating disorder service and on-site coffee shop, supporting patients, staff, and visitors.
You will be responsible for preparing, cooking, and serving meals and beverages according to standard recipes, maintaining hygiene and safety standards, completing required documentation, managing stock and supplies, handling cash, and supporting hospitality services.
This is a hands-on, patient-focused role that requires flexibility, attention to detail, and excellent culinary skills.
Main Responsibilities
Prepare, cook, and serve food and drinks to standardised recipes and dietary requirements
Follow strict food hygiene and safety regulations, including HACCP and allergen controls
Maintain cleanliness of kitchen areas, utensils, and equipment
Handle ordering, stock control, and safe storage of ingredients and supplies
Assist with menu planning, portion control, and food presentation
Operate tills and handle cash transactions in the coffee shop
Complete relevant paperwork (e.g. temperature logs, cleaning schedules, allergen documentation)
Work flexibly within a 7-day rota (7:30am to 6:30pm), including weekends and public holidays as needed
Support in delivering hospitality services for events and meetings
Adhere to Trust policies, infection control standards, and COSHH guidelines
About You – Person Specification
Qualifications (Essential):
NVQ Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality (or equivalent, e.g. City & Guilds 706/1)
Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (must be willing to complete Level 3 within agreed timescale)
Functional skills or equivalent in Numeracy and Literacy at Level 1
Qualifications (Desirable):
NVQ Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality (City & Guilds 706/2)
Experience (Essential):
Previous experience working in a professional catering environment
Experience in food preparation, cooking, and portion control
General cleaning duties and safe use of cleaning materials and chemicals
Basic IT skills (email, digital forms, stock ordering systems)
Experience (Desirable):
Previous NHS or healthcare catering experience
Skills and Knowledge (Essential):
Knowledge of food hygiene, allergens, and HACCP
Ability to follow recipes, portion control, and dietary guidelines
Good understanding of Health & Safety and COSHH regulations
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
Skills and Knowledge (Desirable):
Knowledge of PLACE (Patient-Led Assessments of the Care Environment)
Understanding of basic nutrition and healthy eating principles
Familiarity with National Standards of Cleanliness
About Us
Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust’s Hotel Services team is responsible for delivering non-clinical support services across the Trust, including cleaning, catering, portering, reception, pest control, laundry, and transport. We are committed to maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment to support patient care and recovery.
The Hotel Services department holds Hospitality Assured accreditation from the Institute of Hospitality, recognising our high standards and customer-focused approach.
Additional Requirements
Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS):
This role is subject to a DBS check due to contact with vulnerable individuals.
Travel:
Candidates must be able to travel independently across Trust sites if required.
Sponsorship:
Unfortunately, this position does not meet the eligibility criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK.
How to Apply
Please submit your application via the NHS Jobs website before the closing date: 1 September 2025. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates how you meet the essential criteria listed in the person specification.
