About Excelcare
At Excelcare, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care to over 2,500 people. Our mission is to enhance the quality of daily life for every individual we support, ensuring care is delivered with kindness, dignity, and respect.
Founded in 1989 as a family-run business, Excelcare remains committed to family values, fostering a culture of support, honesty, and openness. We extend this ethos not only to our colleagues but also to the people we care for, their loved ones, and friends—welcoming each person into our extended family.
With 31 unique care homes across Cambridge, Essex, London, and Milton Keynes, along with a dedicated homecare service in London, we provide high-quality, person-centered care tailored to meet the diverse needs of those we serve.
Bank Chef – Ashlyn Care Home (Harlow, Essex)
We are seeking a talented and experienced Bank Chef to join our welcoming team at Ashlyn Care Home in Harlow, Essex. In this role, you will play a key part in providing delicious, nutritious meals while ensuring an outstanding dining experience for the people in our care. Your dedication and support will make a difference every day.
About Excelcare
Excelcare is a family-run care home group with over 34 years of experience in providing high-quality care to older people, including those living with dementia, physical disabilities, and mental health conditions. By joining our team, you become part of our extended family, where dedication and hard work are truly valued.
Salary & Working Hours
- £14.00 per hour
- 0-hour contract – pick up shifts as needed for covering annual leave, sickness, and vacancies
- Shifts: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday to Sunday
Your Role
As a Care Home Chef, you will be responsible for:
- Planning and preparing nutritious meals using fresh ingredients
- Creating weekly menus, considering individual dietary needs
- Managing stock orders in line with budget requirements
- Collaborating with healthcare professionals to ensure meals align with dietary plans and risk assessments
- Maintaining quality assurance within the kitchen
- Supervising kitchen team members
- Ensuring compliance with health, safety, and hygiene regulations (including COSHH and cross-contamination guidelines)
- Engaging in meaningful activities with residents to enhance their dining experience
What We’re Looking For
- Experience cooking for large groups
- NVQ Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality
- At least 2 years’ experience in a catering environment
- Minimum 12 months’ experience managing a kitchen
- Strong interpersonal skills to engage with residents and team members
What We Offer
- Free on-site parking*
- Enhanced pay on bank holidays
- £500 Refer a Friend Scheme
- DBS certificate paid for by Excelcare*
- Comprehensive induction program
- Funded qualifications through the apprenticeship program (if required)
- Paid uniform
- Employee of the Month Award (£100 bonus)
- Team Appreciation Week