Kitchen Assistant

Job Introduction

Chef – Catering Team

📍 Location: HMP Northumberland
📅 Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

We’re seeking a motivated and experienced Chef to join our Catering Team within HMP Northumberland.
This is a unique opportunity to make a positive impact — using your culinary skills to train and supervise prisoners in the preparation and service of meals, while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and security.

You’ll play a vital role in ensuring efficient kitchen operations and contribute to the rehabilitation and skills development of those in custody.

Key Responsibilities

• Instruct and supervise prisoners in the preparation of meals in line with approved recipes and menus.

• Oversee kitchen cleaning activities to ensure compliance with sanitation, safety, and health standards.

• Control knives and kitchen tools in accordance with strict security procedures (full training provided).

• Manage the receipt, storage, and issue of food supplies, maintaining accurate records and stock rotation.

• Complete all relevant daily paperwork and ensure maintenance requests are processed efficiently.

• Visit points of service to ensure portion control, food legislation, and quality standards are met.

• Promote a safe, secure, and inclusive working environment in line with Sodexo and HMP Northumberland procedures.

About You

You’ll be an enthusiastic, adaptable individual who thrives in a team setting and remains calm under pressure. You’ll have a passion for food and an interest in helping others develop valuable life and work skills.

Essential Skills & Qualifications:

• Up-to-date knowledge of Food Safety Standards

• Intermediate Food Hygiene Certificate

• Experience with bulk catering or catering for large numbers

• Allergen Awareness and understanding of Calorie Counts in menu planning

• Recognised catering qualifications (e.g., City & Guilds 7061/7062 or NVQ Level 2/3)

• Strong communication and teamwork skills

• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality in a secure environment

Successful candidates will be required to obtain security clearance before commencing employment.

What We’re Looking For

• A flexible, proactive approach to work

• Enthusiasm for food and teaching

• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion

• Willingness to undertake mandatory and refresher training

• Alignment with Sodexo’s mission, values, and safety standards

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater.

You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. 

In addition, we offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands to shop online, Gym discount to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support to overcome whenever life has its obstacles including emotional support, legal and financial advice. 

For further details regarding our Sodexo benefits please see attached.  

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today! 

About The Company

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.

We're all about building a workplace for the future, we believe in equal opportunities, and we celebrate diversity. We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and be the best versions of themselves. We recognise that we’re on a journey with regards to diversity and inclusion and would therefore welcome applications for candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.