The Demi-Chef will be responsible for supporting the Chef-du-Jour in the management and supervision of the kitchen and ensuring the preparation of high-quality dishes. They will assist in the preparation, cooking, and serving of meals ensuring that the Capuchin Day Centre maintains its food quality, hygiene standards, stock management, and smooth kitchen operations. They will automatically assume the responsibilities of the Chef-du-Jour in their absence.
Primary Duties:
- To work professionally and confidentially and in line with the ethos of the organisation communicating that the respect and dignity of those who come to the Centre is a core value of the Day Centre
- To conduct yourself in a professional manner at all times in the knowledge that as an employee of the Capuchin Day Centre you act as ambassadors on its behalf
- To serve and interact with Day Centre guests as appropriate
- Assist the Chef du Jour in managing the kitchen.
- Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes, specifications, and quality standards.
- Follow food safety, HACCP, and hygiene regulations at all times.
- Maintain high standards of food presentation and portion control.
- Monitor food quality and ensure consistency in all dishes served.
- Ensure ingredients are prepared and available for service.
- Assist with stock rotation, inventory checks, and minimizing food waste.
- Ensure all kitchen equipment is used safely and maintained in good condition.
- Keep workstations clean, organized, and compliant with health and safety requirements.
- Support catering assistants and volunteers as required.
- Work collaboratively with others to ensure efficient service.
- Assist with receiving and storing deliveries according to company procedures.
- To undertake other catering and ad-hoc duties when requested
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Strong alignment with the mission, ethos and values of the Capuchin Day Centre which respects the dignity of those who access its services and offers a caring, pastoral, holistic and non-judgmental service responsive to their needs
- Must be flexible, patient and co-operative, reliable and honest. Confidentiality, especially with regard to service users is vital
- Previous experience as a Demi Chef or similar kitchen role.
- HACCP or Food Safety certification and good understanding of food safety and hygiene standards.
- Experience of coordinating a busy kitchen environment and managing people.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Team-oriented attitude with excellent communication skills.
- Ability to use industrial kitchen equipment as appropriate
- Ability to keep and maintain proper records for the kitchen
- Available to work on weekends and holidays
- Ability to plan and work independently on their own initiative
- Good knowledge of food preparation and cooking techniques.
- Culinary qualification or professional cookery certification (equivalent experience may be considered).
Key Competencies
- Attention to detail
- Food quality focus
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Ability to multitask
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Reliability and punctuality
- Commitment to continuous learning
Performance Measures
- Quality and consistency of food preparation.
- Adherence to food safety and hygiene standards.
- Efficiency during service periods.
- Reduction of food waste.
- Teamwork and contribution to kitchen operations.
- Positive feedback from guests and management.
Days/Hours of Work - The Capuchin Day Centre operates from Monday to Saturday inclusive. The normal hours of work will be from 7.30 a.m. to 3.30 pm with one hour unpaid lunch break. Rates of pay are competitive.
Garda Vetting – As the Day Centre is attended by vulnerable adults and children, its Child Protection policy requires that all employees must undergo Garda Vetting and undertake Children First Training.
Referees - If offered the role, an applicant must supply two referees who have known them in a working capacity.
Remuneration/Terms & Conditions of employment will be discussed at interview.
Pay: €17.50-€25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Bike to work scheme
- Company pension
- Employee assistance program
- Sick pay
Work authorisation:
Work Location: In person