Chef

Job summary

We are looking for a motivated and skilled chef/cook to join our Catering Team within the Staff Restaurant at Musgrove Park Hospital Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, Working Monday - Friday. You will play a key role in delivering high quality, nutritious meals to our staff community, ensuring excellent standards of food safety, service, and presentation.

Within the catering department, you'll find a diverse and welcoming group of individuals who treat each other like family. Our team thrives on collaboration, and we celebrate the unique qualities that each member brings to the table. We believe in positive encouragement, providing ample opportunities for personal growth and professional advancement to those who show dedication and commitment.

What we are looking for:

• Experience working as a chef in a high-quality catering setting
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• A commitment to excellent food quality, safety and presentation
• Confidence in using your judgement to resolve day-to-day operational issues
• A positive, courteous and professional approach

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a busy kitchen environment and is passionate about providing great food that supports the wellbeing of NHS staff.

Main duties of the job

As a valued team member, you will play a key role in driving change and ensuring the delivery of high-quality meals.

In this varied and rewarding role, you will:

• Prepare cooked breakfast , and serve a variety of hot and cold meals in the staff restaurant
• Ensure all dishes are produced to high standards of taste, quality, and presentation
• Work in accordance with NHS food safety, HACCP, and allergen management procedures
• Support menu planning, costing, and recipe development in line with Trust guidelines
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in all kitchen and food service areas
• Monitor stock levels, assist with ordering, and ensure proper rotation of ingredients
• Provide excellent customer service and contribute to a positive dining experience
• Supervise Catering Assistants during shifts, offering guidance and support as needed
• Follow Trust policies on health & safety, infection control, and waste reduction

About us

At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:

• Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
• NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
• Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
• A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential

Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.

We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London.

The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.

Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.