Profile

Caledon Castle is seeking a dedicated and experienced full-time cook to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a passion for preparing high-quality meals, a strong work ethic, and previous experience in a similar situation. Vacancy available due to previous cook retiring after 31 years. 

Requirements:

• Proven cooking experience 
• Ability to plan and prepare varied menus
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team 
• Flexibility and reliability

Title: Caledon Castle Cook                                                                                                                    July 2025

Caledon Castle requires a full-time in-house cook to prepare delicious, healthy meals for the family and their guests using fresh, seasonal and local ingredients where possible. The ideal candidate will have a strong culinary background, supported by strong references, excellent organisational skills and the ability to work independently while maintaining discretion and professionalism at all times. Caledon Castle has modern well equipped kitchens in an historic house on a large estate. There will be other housekeeping staff that will help in the kitchen at busy times or larger functions. Taking direction from the family and chief housekeeper the following are  the main responsibilities, while comprehensive it is not exhaustive. 

Main Responsibilities

• Menu planning – design varied, nutritious and appealing menus based on seasonal availability and the preferences/dietary requirement of the household.
• Meal Preparation- prepare and serve high quality breakfasts, lunches and dinners typically for a small household but occasionally for larger gatherings and events. Meals should be well presented, flavorsome and served at the appropriate time.
• Ingredient Sourcing & Inventory- shop for ingredients and manage relationships with local suppliers ensuring fresh and fine produce is selected and used. You will be responsible for most of the grocery shopping on a weekly basis while maintaining stock levels, rotating inventory and minimising waste.
• Kitchen Management -maintain a clean, organised, safe and hygienic kitchen in compliance with the relevant standards. Partake and oversee in cleaning of kitchen appliances, utensils and surfaces regularly also ensuring any of the large appliances receive deep cleaning on a regular basis. 
• Dietary Needs & Preferences- accommodate special dietary requirements and ensure consistency with family preferences and dietary routines. 
• Confidentiality- maintain discretion at all times regarding household affairs while exercising the utmost professionalism and respect. 

Qualifications & Experience 

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience as a private cook or in a similar professional kitchen setting.
• Formal culinary training is advantageous but not essential
• Knowledge of traditional and modern cuisines, with the ability to prepare both formal and informal meals.
• Valid food safety and hygiene certification or a willingness to achieve them. 
• Full UK driving license is required. 

Personal Attributes 

• Discreet, trustworthy and respectful of privacy
• Flexible and adaptable with a “can do” attitude
• Excellent time management and organisation
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team
• Genuine passion for food and quality service.

Working hours

• Full time, generally 5 days per week with flexibility to work weekends and evenings when required.
• Hours may vary depending on the household’s schedule or events.
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Commensuration 

• Competitive salary based on experience/negotiable
• Additional benefits may include, accommodation, a car for business use, pension.

To apply please submit the application form, equality monitoring form and your own CV to estateoffice@caledon-castle.com 02837568220

Closing date: 31/7/2025