About the Role
We are seeking an experienced, enthusiastic, and organised Chef to work within our busy Student Centre. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering high-quality food offerings for students, staff, and visitors, while also delivering catering events held throughout the year.
This is an excellent opportunity for a culinary professional who enjoys creating diverse menus, managing kitchen operations, and leading a small catering team in a dynamic college environment.
Key Responsibilities
· Prepare and deliver a high standard of fresh, nutritious, and appealing food for students, staff, and visitors.
· Develop and maintain varied daily food offerings that are attractive to a diverse student audience, balancing quality, nutrition, value for money, and current food trends.
· Plan, prepare, and oversee catering services for meetings, conferences, receptions, and larger dinner service events.
- Design seasonal and event-specific menus that balance quality, value, and customer satisfaction.
- Manage food ordering, stock control, and supplier relationships to ensure consistent product availability.
- Monitor and control kitchen budgets, food costs, and waste levels to achieve financial targets.
- Lead, supervise, and support a small catering team, ensuring effective scheduling, training, and performance management.
- Ensure compliance with all food safety, HACCP, health and safety, and allergen regulations.
- Maintain excellent standards of food preparation, presentation, cleanliness, and customer service.
- Drive continuous improvement in food quality, service delivery, and operational efficiency.
- Work collaboratively with college departments to support special events and catering requirements.
Essential Requirements
- Minimum of 3 years' experience as a Chef in a busy catering, hospitality, restaurant/café.
- Relevant professional culinary qualification.
- Proven experience in menu planning and delivering high-volume food service.
- Strong experience managing food ordering, stock control, and kitchen budgets.
- Experience supervising and leading a small catering or kitchen team.
- Excellent knowledge of HACCP, food safety regulations, and kitchen best practices.
- Strong organisational, communication, and leadership skills.
- Ability to work flexibly and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Application Requirements
As part of the application process, candidates must submit:
- An up-to-date CV.
- A cover letter outlining their suitability for the role.
- A sample menu showcasing:
Daily food offerings suitable for students, staff, and visitors.
Consideration of dietary requirements and value for money.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary.
- Supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Opportunity to play a key role within a vibrant college community.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- The chance to shape and enhance the food experience for students, staff, and visitors.
To Apply:
Please submit your CV, cover letter and sample menu.
- We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Pay: From €40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Bike to work scheme
- Company pension
- Employee discount
Application question(s):
- Have you uploaded a sample menu as per job description? Please upload under supporting documents section on your application.
Licence/Certification:
- HACCP Level 2 Certificate (required)
Work authorisation:
Location:
- Cork, County Cork (preferred)
Work Location: In person
