At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in serving food and drinks while ensuring a high-quality catering service.
- Company: Join Synchronicity Care Limited, a key player in NHS catering services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible shifts, pension contributions, and holiday allowances.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a difference in patient care.
- Qualifications: Previous catering experience and a passion for customer service.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ per year.
We are looking for a Retail Catering Assistant who will play a pivotal role in driving the success of retail catering services within Synchronicity Care Limited (SCL) at the University Hospital North Durham. This position is integral to delivering seamless operations and enhancing customer satisfaction. The successful candidate will be part of an NHS England Catering Exemplar site and will be part of the team that provides the catering service to the external retail outlet on site serving drinks, snacks, and composite meals.
The successful applicant will have:
- Previous catering experience in a fast-paced environment
- Sound knowledge of food hygiene regulations
- Demonstrate a can-do attitude
- Excellent communication and customer care skills
- Be aged 18 or over (due to the nature of the shifts and role)
Main duties of the job:
- Assisting in the service of beverages and food items in all retail catering outlets at University Hospital of North Durham.
- Dismantling and reassembling equipment being cleaned.
- Carrying out cleaning duties in accordance with Departmental Specifications and Cleaning Policy.
- Disposing of food waste and refuse safely and hygienically.
- Assisting in the cleaning of all containers, crockery, and cutlery used in the service to staff and visitors.
- Operating an EPOS till and restocking areas.
- Logging food and fridge temperatures in line with departmental policy.
About us:
SCL is a wholly owned subsidiary of County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) set up to deliver a range of non-clinical services. The company is a separate legal body to CDDFT. SCL offers its own Terms and Conditions of employment which differ from the national NHS Terms and Conditions. As an employee in the company, you will benefit from:
- Access to a pension scheme - National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) with a 3% contribution from CDD Services.
- Night Shift Working Allowances (where appropriate).
- Bank Holiday Working Allowances (where appropriate).
- Bank work is offered on an 'as and when' basis with no guaranteed hours and will be paid on a pro-rata hourly rate for hours worked only.
Job responsibilities:
- Support and assist the Head of Retail and Retail Supervisor in the provision of a highly professional catering service within the retail units at University Hospital North Durham and ensure that high-quality standards are met at all times.
- Follow the policies and procedures laid down by the retail services in the day-to-day operational management of retail and ensure a high-quality and cost-effective service.
- Ensure that food safety regulations are adhered to at all times.
- Provide and maintain a highly customer-focused restaurant facility.
- Ensure that communication channels are maintained between appropriate staff, visitor, and patient groups regarding patient feeding.
- Work in a safe manner so that no other persons are put at risk whilst completing the required duties.
- Initially deal with any complaints/comments regarding the service in a courteous manner from Trust staff or patients.
- Develop staff preferences, promote flexible working arrangements, and encourage change of working practice following major life-changing events.
Special Requirements:
- Ability to work shifts and weekends and have flexibility to the needs of the service.
- Health and safety awareness.
Qualifications:
- A good standard of literacy and numeracy.
Experience:
- Catering experience.
Special Skills & Knowledge:
- Natural and enthusiastic staff member.
- Ability to follow clear instructions and feedback to senior staff.
- Committed to quality customer care/delivering excellent customer service.
- Effective interpersonal skills.
- Able to work with minimal supervision following set procedures.
- Flexible approach to work and adaptable to change.
- Good manual dexterity and physical fitness.
- Good timekeeping.
- Basic numeracy.
- Knowledge of food safety and allergen regulations.
- Basic keyboard skills.
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
SCL Retail Catering Assistant employer: Cddft
At Synchronicity Care Limited, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment at the University Hospital North Durham. Our team enjoys competitive benefits, including a pension scheme and shift allowances, while working in a dynamic setting that prioritises customer satisfaction and professional growth. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values quality service and fosters a culture of collaboration and flexibility.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SCL Retail Catering Assistant
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Cddft. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Cddft
Don't be shy about reaching out to Cddft directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace SCL Retail Catering Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Cddft and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cddft
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
