Elms Cook

Location: The Elms Hemel Hempstead
Salary: £16.25 an hour
Hours: Saturday and/or Sunday 6 hours Every weekend/every other weekend.  (approx. 2pm to 7pm but negotiable)

Reports to: Elms Head Chef
Closing date: 18th January 2026. We may close the advert or start interviews before the closing date based on the applicants we recieve. 

About the Role

DENS is looking for a passionate and experienced Cook to join our team at The Elms, our 44-bedroom mixed hostel. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys working independently and wants to make a tangible difference in the lives of our residents through nutritious, high-quality food.

Key Responsibilities

• Meal Preparation: Safely produce high-quality hot meals, desserts, and drinks, ensuring they are nutritional, varied, and follow agreed meal plans.
• Safety & Compliance: Maintain strict Health & Safety standards and keep the ‘Safer Food Better Business for Caterers’ records updated.
• Kitchen Management: Manage food prep, minimize waste, keep catering areas clean and well-stocked, and liaise with the Head Chef.
• Allergen Awareness: Ensure all dietary requirements and common allergens are managed with total accuracy.

About you

• Experience: Previous experience in a kitchen (schools, colleges, or care homes is a plus) and the ability to work confidently on your own.
• Qualifications: A current Food Hygiene Certificate is essential. A recognized catering qualification or equivalent professional experience is required.
• Skills: Strong verbal communication and a passion for simple, wholesome, and well-presented food.
• Values: A commitment to excellent customer service and a supportive attitude toward our residents.

This role is subject to safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS check.

Benefits

·         25 days or equivalent annual leave

·         Flexible working environment

·         Medicash plan, including Virtual GP, some dental and optical cover

·         Employee assistance programme - 24/7 mental health support helpline

·         Professional development and training

·         NEST pension scheme

How to apply

If you match our criteria, please send your CV, including your Supporting Statement. 

For an informal chat or to request a full job discription and person specification, please ring our Accommodation Service Manager, Ruth Osbourne on 01442 800 131