At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our catering team to serve customers and maintain a vibrant café atmosphere.
- Company: Be part of the Centre for Alternative Technology, a leading eco centre in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, free meals, discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in sustainability while gaining valuable hospitality experience.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a passion for customer service and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
CAT are seeking a Catering & Hospitality Assistant to work as part of the catering team, providing front of house service to café/bar customers and help deliver and maintain a high standard of customer service, cleanliness and presentation.
About CAT: The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is an internationally renowned environmental charity, a world‑leading eco centre, and one of the foremost providers of postgraduate environmental education in the UK, based near Machynlleth in Mid Wales. CAT provides inspiration, education and training in solutions to the climate and biodiversity emergency. Key activities include a visitor centre where people can see solutions in action, residential, in‑person and online short courses and events, vocational training, and postgraduate degrees in a wide range of sustainability‑related topics.
Responsible to: Plant‑Based Sustainable Catering Manager
Responsible for: Catering Staff
Contract type: Permanent
Working Days: Spread over 7 days on a rota basis, including evenings and early mornings; split shifts may be required, depending on business requirements.
Salary and employee benefits: CAT offers a generous annual leave allowance of 25 days p.a. pro rata, plus bank holidays (usually 7-9 days), plus additional allowance at Christmas (usually 3 days), plus 1 extra day for every year worked (up to 5 days). CAT also offers an attractive package of employee benefits, including:
- a free cooked lunch and free hot drinks from the café whenever working from the CAT eco centre
- 40% discount on retail goods purchased from CAT
- Opportunities for CPD training, qualifications & professional memberships to be funded by CAT
- the opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
- generous maternity and paternity entitlement and Death In Service benefit
- 2 hours per month for general health & wellbeing & 2 hours per month for Welsh language tuition.
Overview of the Role: CAT’s catering team aims to provide a high quality service to its range of customers who include day visitors, school groups, students, course attendees, B&B guests, events and conference delegates. CAT’s café is one of the leading vegetarian and sustainable food outlets in Wales, showcasing low‑carbon, nutritious and tasty food. Current areas of operation include the main café and the bar and restaurant in the Wales Institute for Sustainable Education (WISE) building.
Main Responsibilities:
- Working with the Catering team, serving customers in the cafe and the bar, operating the till, cashing up, cleaning areas and restocking as required.
- Working with the Hospitality team, ensuring that an excellent level of presentation and cleanliness is maintained in general public areas and accommodation.
- Assisting with events.
- To comply with CAT Health & Safety Procedures.
- Undertake such other duties as required by the Plant‑Based Sustainable Catering Manager.
Catering & Hospitality Assistant in Machynlleth employer: Centre for Alternative Technology Charity Limited
The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises sustainability and community engagement. Located in the picturesque Mid Wales, CAT provides its employees with generous benefits, including a free cooked lunch, extensive annual leave, and opportunities for professional development, all while contributing to meaningful environmental initiatives. Join our dedicated catering team and be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values your growth and well-being.
Contact Details:
Centre for Alternative Technology Charity Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering & Hospitality Assistant in Machynlleth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on CAT and its mission. Understanding their focus on sustainability and customer service will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their catering crew.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your front-of-house skills! Since you'll be serving customers directly, think about how you can demonstrate excellent customer service during your interview. Maybe role-play with a friend or family member to get comfortable with common scenarios you might face.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! When you show up for your interview, make sure you look presentable and professional. A neat appearance reflects your understanding of the importance of cleanliness and presentation in the hospitality industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from our site. It shows initiative and makes it easier for us to keep track of your application. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role right there!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering & Hospitality Assistant in Machynlleth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Sustainability:When writing your application, let us know why you're excited about working in a sustainable environment. Share any experiences or interests you have in eco-friendly practices, as this aligns perfectly with our mission at CAT.
Highlight Customer Service Skills:Since the role involves front of house service, make sure to emphasise your customer service experience. Talk about how you've gone above and beyond to ensure customers have a great experience, as this is key to our catering team.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well. We appreciate applications that are easy to read and get straight to the heart of what makes you a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Centre for Alternative Technology Charity Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with CAT's mission and values, especially their focus on sustainability and environmental education. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you provided excellent customer service. Think about specific situations where you went above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction, as this role heavily relies on front of house service.
✨Dress the Part
Since you'll be working in a café/bar environment, make sure to dress smartly and appropriately for the interview. A neat appearance shows that you take the role seriously and understand the importance of presentation in hospitality.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how they maintain their high standards of cleanliness and service. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
